One thing that is tough when you're attempting to eat healthier is trying to avoid the unhealthy treats that we are accustomed to. My weaknesses are desserts. I love them, especially chocolate chip cookies or ice cream. I also like eating desserts while watching television. That can be dangerous because it's easy to overeat watching a thirty minute to one hour program.
We are all human and no matter how disciplined we try to be, we can't beat ourselves up if we end up giving into a food craving. Instead of feeling guilty or giving up all together when you're craving a certain food, try a few of the methods below to help keep those cravings under control.
Drink water - Water is one of the easiest ways to suppress your appetite. It can give you the feeling of fullness - at least long enough for the craving to go away.
Substitution - If you're craving something crunchy, swap the chips for crunchy veggies like carrots. If you crave chocolate, choose low-fat items like chocolate flavored rice cakes. You get the idea!
Distraction - You can do something else until the food craving subsides like exercising. Whatever hobby you like, just do something to change your focus.
Stop buying the cravings - I used to be a big soda drinker but once I decided to cut back, I stopped adding it to my grocery list. Now I never buy soda and I refuse to drink it! Whatever your weakness, stop buying them. You don't have to give them up all together, but at least you won't have easy access by having them in your home.
Eat in moderation - If you can't fight the craving, instead of giving in and overeating, eat a small portion just to satisfy your craving. This is better than going all out and eating way more than you should.
You don't have to torture yourself when you're craving a certain food. Doing that will only make you want that food even more. Out of all the methods above, I feel substitution works best for me. I get to satisfy the craving and in turn not feel like I've "cheated."
