7 tips to help you curb cravings!
Cravings are unavoidable. We all get them. Sometimes we get them stronger than others. And our cravings often aren’t for carrots, or the most nutritious foods.
Use these tips to help you curb your cravings!
1. Drink water
When dehydrated the brain may interpret the signal of dehydration as hunger. It’s important to continuously be drinking water throughout the day to keep our bodies functioning at its best.
2. Eat more protein
Protein helps the body feel satiated for longer, reducing overall cravings and hunger.
3. Plan your meals
Knowing when you are eating, and what you are eating can help you keep your hunger in check. Going too long without eating can heighten one’s cravings.
4. Eat more frequently
When you let yourself become ravenously hungry that is when you start to crave all the sweets and greasy food. By eating more regularly, your hunger cues will be more in check, and you'll find you are craving those less nutritious foods less often.
5. Get adequate amount of sleep
One's appetite is largely dependent on our natural hormone fluctuations that happen throughout the day. Those who are sleep deprived have poorer appetite regulation and often stronger cravings.
6. Eat proper balanced meals
Eating meals that are well balanced between carbs, proteins, fats, fruits/vegetables will help us feel fuller longer, will keep us satiated, and our hormones in check. Hunger and lack of important nutrients both flare up cravings.
7. SATISFY them
If you are craving pizza, eat the pizza. There is more to life than a 100% clean diet all the time. You are allowed to satisfy your cravings and enjoy every bite guilt free. Your diet should be balanced, meaning that majority of the time you do eat whole, natural, nutrient dense foods, but that you are still allowed to indulge in your cravings from time to time.
While we can’t give in to our cravings all of the time, I do believe it is important to satisfy cravings. There is nothing wrong with saying yes to the giant cinnamon bun you have been craving for the past 3 days. When we constantly restrict certain foods or food groups, our cravings can become out of hand, and it can often lead to binge eating tendencies.
My philosophy is that everything can be enjoyed in moderation. Fuel your body, give it the nutrients and food it needs, but don’t shy away from satisfying those cravings from time to time.
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