Curb Snack Cravings During Weight Loss
June 1, 2014
We all know that snack cravings can sabotage any weight loss goals. Now that you’ve committed to changing your habits you have to prepare for them.
Here are some tricks which can help you avoid snacking and keep you on track with your weight loss.
Curb Snack Cravings by Drinking Water
All too often when we change our dietary habits we mistake our body’s need for hydration for hunger. Reaching for a snack won’t eliminate this unfulfilled feeling. Grab a glass of water instead and chances are you will gratify the need to put something in your mouth. The volume of the water will curb any hunger that is truly there.
Curb Snack Cravings by Eating at Regular Intervals
By eating three well balanced meals and two snacks per day you’ll keep your blood sugar at normal levels. When your blood sugar drops, your body will in turn crave sugary foods. By scheduling your meals in advance, you can prevent this craving. Include lots of fruits and vegetables as well as lean proteins and your body will feel fuller for longer.
Curb Snack Cravings by Brushing Your Teeth
When dieting you may find that your senses are heightened. Certainly your taste buds will be simply because it has become your focus. If you’re inclined to snack, take a moment and brush your teeth. You may find that you are actually reacting to an undesirable flavor lingering on your palate.
This often satisfies the urge and becomes a deterrent to snacking. Once you’ve got a fresh clean mouth you may find you won’t want to mess it up.
Curb Snack Cravings by Chewing Gum
If you’re a snacker, chances are you are prompted by the need to chew. Instead of reaching for food, pop a piece of flavored gum in your mouth and chew away. This may satisfying the need to chew and distract you enough to wait until your next meal time.
Curb Snack Cravings by Moving
When that urge comes upon you, remember that exercise is a great way to reduce cravings. Exercise stimulates an energy boost which negates the need for late afternoon sugar jolts which snacks provide. You don’t need to do anything strenuous; a simple walk around the office or building can do the trick.
This is also a positive distraction technique; which leads to improved cardiovascular health, higher level of fitness and burning calories!
Curb Snack Cravings by Snacking Wisely
In the event that you simply cannot overcome the need to snack, it’s important to be prepared to snack wisely. Make sure to have healthy options available; stock up on fruit, nuts and crunchy vegetables. Make sure you control your portions though, overdoing anything can sabotage your efforts.
When people are snacking it’s often for emotional reasons. People seek comfort in foods rather than releasing the energy stored by avoiding stress or other emotions. Find another outlet such as exercise for alleviating these emotions and seek professional advice when appropriate in efforts to change your relationship with food.