Fighting Food Cravings: What You Need to Succeed
By Genevieve Cunningham
Food can be complicated. While its main purpose is fuel for the body, it also satisfies an emotional need. The taste and comfort that it provides is unlike anything else. But because food is often tied to emotions, it can get out of hand. We get cravings that are associated with how we feel. And once we give into cravings, it's really hard to rein it back in. Luckily, fighting food cravings is something that everyone can do -- and it doesn't have to be a complicated issue. If you need a little help fighting cravings and winning, take a look at these tips to help you find success.
Keep Yourself Busy During Emotional Times
If you eat around your emotions, it's probably become a bit of a habit. The good news is that habits can be broken. If you want to break this eating habit, try to stay busy anytime you're feeling emotional. Write in a journal or read a book or exercise or do a hobby. The busier your hands and mind are, the less you'll think about eating food for comfort.
Plan Your Favorite Indulgences Into Your Schedule
Cravings aren't all bad. You just can't give into them all the time. But if you know that beforehand, you can just plan your favorite indulgences into your menu. Maybe you have a favorite dessert every Sunday. Maybe you allow a craving twice per month. Whatever you choose to do, keep it in your menu and your schedule, and the cravings will be easier to keep under control.
Readjust Your Thoughts About Cravings
One of the problems with cravings is that we always think of them in the most negative way. Why? They don't have to be the enemy. Sure, we can't always indulge in sweets and treats, but it's OK to satisfy a sweet tooth with a piece of chocolate. It's OK to eat a handful of chips when you have a salt craving. Don't think of it as a failure, but instead as a moment to listen to your body and meet its demands. It's OK to not be perfect. Remember that, and the whole process is easier.
Cravings happen to absolutely everyone. Even those with a seemingly perfect diet get cravings. It's OK to let them happen sometimes. And it's also OK to fight them off. Use these tips to keep a balance between cravings, health, and long-term health, and you can keep your wellness on track starting now and lasting for years in the future.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Santa Monica, Calif.