Here’s how you can cope with food cravings

Trying to stay away from junk food?

Here’s how you can cope with food cravings

    Find yourself reaching out for that bar of chocolate you know you shouldn’t be eating? While some studies say that we crave certain foods because our body lacks nutrients, some say it is just greed. Whatever it is, here are some simple tips to help you cope with your food cravings. 

HAVE MORE FLUIDS When you feel you’re hungry, do you actually want to eat or just have something to drink? There are times when your body might be demanding fluids instead of food. Experts say it is a good idea to have a drink before you eat to keep yourself adequately hydrated. Make sure you keep sipping on
water throughout the day. 

DISTRACT YOURSELF Are you reaching out for that pack of chips just because you’re bored? If yes, you need to focus on something else to distract yourself. Listen to music, read a book, call a friend or
watch your favourite sitcom. 

RATE YOUR HUNGER When you feel like eating something, ask yourself how hungry you really are. Is it okay if you forgo that burger? Eat slowly, because it usually takes a while for you to feel full. This will also give you a chance to judge better whether you have eaten enough. 

KEEP TEMPTATION AT BAY Why buy those food items, which aren’t good for you, in excess? Avoid those aisles in the mall that tempt you with offers that you cannot resist. You might find it hard in the beginning, but at least give it a shot. 

KEEP A DIARY Keep note of everything you eat. A week later, strike out all the things you ate, which could have been avoided. Not only will this help you identify your eating pattern, it will also help you control it. And if boredom, stress or happiness are reasons for your excess eating, the food diary will help identify the different triggers and find out a solution. 

SNACK UP Do you generally stick to just three meals a day? Having healthy snacks in between meals will ensure a satisfied and full tummy, which in turn keeps you away from eating unnecessarily. Eat in small portions and often to maintain a healthy diet. 

DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST After fasting the entire night, the first meal you eat in the morning is very important. Therefore, a filling breakfast is a must. This will keep you energised till your next meal. 

DE-STRESS TO DISCOURAGE THOSE CRAVINGS Are you eating because you’re feeling emotionally wraught? Tremendously stressed? Or deliriously happy? Often, food cravings have something to do with your emotions. For many people, cravings seem to increase when you’re anxious. Carbohydrates boost levels of the hormone serotonin, which has a calming effect. The combination of fat and sugar also have a calming effect. So, if you’re reaching out for that chocolate when you’re stressed, you need to first calm your nerves.

MAKE A HEALTHY CHOICE: When you feel like eating junk food, ask yourself if it is really worth it