Hi Bellaryna,
Its great that you've decided to come here and make these changes in your life. Go tame that beast (elliptical) it really is a viscious machine... once its tamed though you'll feel soo great!
I also used to eat just because... now sometiems I have to force myself to eat to get enough
calories. Sheryl is right though... do not be too strict with yourself. Especially at first. This journey is about learning to be healthy and the key to that is moderation.
Good luck on your journey and taming the beast
~Jenna