Step One: Admitting the Truth (and Finding Real Help)
- Julie Kleinhans
- Aug 16
- 2 min read
If you’ve ever told yourself, “Tomorrow I’ll try harder to eat right and not overeat”… only to end up repeating the same cycle, you’re not weak.
You’re stuck in a pattern that willpower alone can’t fix. Certain foods light up the brain like a drug of choice. They pull us back in, especially when we’re stressed, lonely, or tired.
The more we white-knuckle it, the more discouraging it feels.
That’s why Step One is so powerful. It breaks the cycle of false hope by getting real about the problem.
In my book, 12 Steps to Recovery from Overeating, I wrote:
"Admitting we have an addiction to our binge foods is critical to recovering from this disorder. We cannot do this alone! We need each other, the 12 Steps, and most importantly, we need God’s help."
— Julie Kleinhans, 12 Steps to Recovery from Overeating
This first admission is not about shame — it’s about freedom.
The truth is, willpower alone isn’t enough. For compulsive overeaters, certain foods trigger cravings we can’t stop. Recognizing this as an addiction changes everything. Instead of blaming ourselves, we can finally see it for what it is: a disorder that requires God’s strength and daily support.
So what does Step One look like in action?
• Name your binge/trigger foods and commit to abstaining from them.
• Pray before meals for willingness and strength.
• Share honestly with a trusted person.
• Create structure: a simple food plan, water, movement, and evening reflection.
• Stay connected in community.
Recovery isn’t about perfection. It’s about letting God lead, and letting people support you.
If you’re ready to stop the exhausting start-over cycle, take the first step. Admit the truth — and let God begin the work of freedom.
👉 My book is available for purchase on Amazon at: https://a.co/d/b59l7hh
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