When trying to maintain a healthy diet, complete with regular exercise, it may be possible to allow all foods in your diet within moderation. Even when on a program, you may find yourself battling evil cravings for sweets or other foods that seem to take on a life of their own.
Why exactly do we crave specific foods. Research has proven that those who have a tendency to binge have been restricted. While we don’t know if this is purely psychological or not, we do know that sometimes you simply want what you are not allowed to have. Whether your cravings for particular foods are because you are a little down, or your diet has been too limited, it can be hard to prevent. Here are five ways you can try to stop cravings for foods.
Stay hydrated. Often, when you feel hungry, your body is sending you a signal to drink more water. Water not only acts as an appetite suppressant, but it will keep your stomach full while fending off food cravings. It is also beneficial for digestion and overall well being.
When feeling a craving come on, wait a few minutes before giving in. Often cravings won’t last very long, and doing something as simple as washing the dishes or walking the dog will give your body time for the craving to pass. With a little time, often you don’t have to anything else.
If you have trigger foods, avoid them. You crave what your body is used to, so switch your eating habits. Eliminating caffeine or refined sugars and replacing with healthier options will train your body to feel full, and the urge for the old foods will diminish.
So, if you’re trying to avoid your food triggers, remember that the first few days are always going to be the most difficult. Again, it may not be possible to completely eliminate your old cravings, but if you can avoid your trigger foods for a while you may notice you begin to crave them less.
Replace your bad habits with good ones. Sometimes it just doesn’t work to ignore your urge or drink water. On these strong urge occasions, pick a healthier choice. I would recommend a big glass of water, and about 1 ounces of mixed nuts or seeds (without salt) to help curb the cravings.
Don’t totally avoid the food cravings. Allow a treat and indulge every once in awhile. This is a great strategy for many people. Portion control is key -so for those days when you need chocolate, pick a few small pieces of high cocoa chocolate. Seventy percent and higher cocoa has been shown to have the most antioxidant to fight disease.
Sick and tired of fad diets that doesn’t work? Here you will find articles and reviews of the most successful diet plans to lose weight permanently. You can also watch my videos about healthy diet plans to lose weight quickly.
