5 tips against food cravings
The trip to the fridge or the sweets drawer is often triggered by cravings. But why do we find ourselves doing this several times a day? And the well-known question, why do we do it? Boredom, frustration or stress are often to blame. In rare cases, it is actually hunger or a lack of nutrients.
We’ve all been there: we crave something sweet, preferably right away. We often can’t resist such cravings and so we reach for the unhealthy snacks. At least I do! And it doesn’t necessarily have to be a craving for something sweet, I’m often tempted by something greasy or even salty – pizza, breadcrumbs or chips with lots of mayo! But with a few simple tips, you can resist cravings and trick your mind. Curious? Let’s go!
Drink a glass of water
The simplest tip first: drink a large glass of water. We often think we’re hungry, but all our body wants is liquid. And if a simple glass of water isn’t enough, you can spice it up with a lemon or cucumber. This way we still have a sour or sweet taste in our mouth and our cravings are satisfied.
Seek distraction
Distraction is the best tip for cravings. As cravings are often caused by boredom or frustration, it often helps to take your mind off things. Don’t think about the tasty snacks and instead go out into the fresh air, tidy up or perhaps do some exercise.
More protein and fiber
Protein- and fiber-rich foods can help you avoid cravings. This is because after eating carbohydrates, blood sugar levels drop again after a short time and this encourages the desire for sweets.
If you eat something with lots of protein or fiber instead, you stay full for longer and the drop in sugar does not occur. It is best to eat pulses, wholegrain pasta, wholegrain rice, vegetables and salad and avoid products such as white toast or similar.
Regular meals
Plan your meals in advance and make sure you have a healthy snack to hand in case you get the munchies. It is also popular to eat several smaller meals a day, e.g. three main meals and two snacks, to keep your blood sugar levels constant. This prevents the big (hot) hunger pangs. You can read more about meal prepping here.
Brush your teeth
Brush your teeth? Yes, you read that right, because this trick works for three reasons: Firstly, you’re signaling to your brain that the meal is now over. Secondly, the fresh mint flavor of your toothpaste may slow you down a little because you have a new taste in your mouth. And last but not least, food usually doesn’t taste as good after brushing your teeth. So you’ll avoid an unnecessary snack and your dentist will be happy too!
And after all those thoughts about cravings, I’m going to get myself a big glass of water!
