You’ve decided you’re going to transition into a healthy lifestyle and diet. You have been staying true to your commitment until midnight rolls around and the cravings start to kick in. You may find yourself reaching for a bag of salty potato chips, piece of chocolate cake, or a slice of left-over pizza without a moment’s hesitation. There is nothing wrong with indulging from time to time, but diet contributes to 80% of health and fitness. Nutrition is vital for achieving your health and fitness goals, you cannot out train a bad diet. Fortunately, curving cravings can be easier than you think when you incorporate the tips below.
1. Drink Water
Drink a full glass of water when you wake up and before consuming meals. If you feel as though you’re hungry, you may just be dehydrated. At times, dehydration can be akin to feelings of hunger. Health officials recommend the average person should drink 8 cups of water per day. Incorporating more water into your diet is an easy way to help cut out unnecessary snacking and accelerate weight loss.
2. Healthy Alternatives
Swap out salty and sweet processed snacks with delicious whole food alternatives. You may miss the unhealthy snacks in the beginning, but you will grow to love the healthy alternatives in no time. Kale chips, almonds, pistachios, apples & peanut butter, and hummus & carrots are all examples of healthy snack choices.
3. Mindful Eating
Food is a source of fuel for the body. You wouldn’t fill your car with low quality gasoline, it could harm the engine. Why would you consume processed, low-nutrient foods? In order to cut cravings, you should be mindful of the relationship you have with food. Is snacking something you do when you’re bored? Do you find yourself reaching for unhealthy options when you have spare time? Monitor your thoughts when it comes to your relationship with food. Becoming more mindful of the foods you consume will support you in reducing unhealthy snacking.
4. Reduce Stress
The hustle and bustle of modern times have given way to busy schedules, deadlines, and various stressors for individuals everywhere. Stress can play a harmful role in our daily lives if it is not mitigated. Stress can have various damaging effects on health such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and more. Stress and unhealthy snacking go hand in hand for many of us. Take steps to reduce stress by journaling, exercising, and relaxing with friends and family.
