Cravings can be overwhelming and an annoyance that lingers until you feed into it. And while cravings can be satisfied, continuously caving into commonly desired high-sugar and fat foods can start impeding on health goals. So rather than feeding into them, rid and stop cravings with these healthier options!
How to Stop Food Cravings
Snack on Fresh Fruit
While a piece of candy can certainly be enjoyed every now and then, continuously feeding the body sugar may accelerate that notorious sugar addiction. So rather than going for that candy dish each passing time, keep fresh fruit handy in its whole form or conveniently sliced for easy snacking. Additionally, pairing fiber-rich fruit with a protein source can stave against intense cravings or hunger pangs until the next upcoming meal.
Sip on Water
Hunger is oftentimes mistaken for thirst; so rather than gravitating to the snack pantry, pour yourself a glass of water. Not only does water prevent against dehydration, but may lessen the risk of overeating. Water can also be infused with various ingredients to maximize hydration status while offering various flavors, including these refreshing infused water recipes.
Have a Tea Party
Drinking tea not only contributes to fluid status, but can also ward off cravings much like fresh fruit is suggested to do. Herbal and green teas may also increase metabolism, speed up weight loss, and these other incredible benefits.
Brush Your Teeth
Feel a sweet tooth coming on? Brush it off! Grabbing the toothbrush and paste not only leaves a minty fresh feeling in your mouth, but can stave off those pesky, unwelcomed cravings.
Chew On Gum
Instead of popping in hundreds of calories from unnecessary snacks, chew on a sugar-free piece of gum. Like brushing your teeth, the fresh feeling can combat against cravings while flavorful chewing gums can satisfy a sweet tooth.
Take a Walk
Most often, individuals gravitate to the kitchen in bouts of boredom. But instead of walking to the pantry, redirect and go for a walk in nature or head to the gym. Doing so facilitates calorie burn, enhances overall mood, and diminishes the desire for those comfort foods.
Play A Game
Whether on your phone or with a deck of cards or childhood board game, getting lost in such activities helps distract the mind from food for the time being. But if you are to snack on while playing, gravitate towards sliced veggies, a piece of fruit, or a bowl of unbuttered popcorn.
Allow Indulgences
Sometimes the heart wants what the heart wants. So rather than depriving yourself completely, allow small indulgences. However, it is important to consider the temptation a food product may have, and just whether or not you will always cave into it. For instance, if delegating a small scoop of ice cream every once in awhile turns into consuming the whole large pint, go for the individual or smaller ice cream cartons to satisfy the craving without keeping the temptation conveniently in your home.
Project the Future
Although it is encouraged to live your life in the moment, continuing do so (or at least when it comes to food cravings) may impede on your health goals. Projecting and envisioning a healthier you can keep you motivated to ditch innutritious cravings and embrace healthier choices.
