10 SIMPLE TIPS TO STOP FOOD CRAVINGS
We all have a sweet tooth. And we want them now! You might be craving pizza or other greasy, salty foods.
When we least expect it, and are usually unprepared to resist it, we can get a nasty craving.
FOOD Cravings: What causes them?
Can nutrient deficiencies cause cravings?
There is no definitive evidence that nutrient deficiencies cause cravings. Cravings are caused by only a few conditions such as sodium deficiencies and pica.
- Lack of sleep (5)
- Stress(6)
- Hormonal changes
- Drinking too little fluids
- Leptin and Ghrelin Inbalances (7)
- Mood(8)
We have a number of tips to help you fight your urge to grab a chocolate bar.
10 TIPS FOR STOPPING FOOD Cravings
The tips below are arranged by how quickly you can implement them. While you might be tempted by the fastest tips, we recommend that you give them all a go over the next couple of weeks to get the best results.
What you can do to stop cravings in 5 minutes or less
1. Drink Some Water
You can curb your cravings by drinking a big glass of water. Then, wait a few minutes. The fullness in your stomach can make the craving less intense, even if it doesn’t go away completely.
2. Play a game on your phone
Who knew playing a phone game could help reduce cravings. It’s important to distract yourself from the cravings, whether you drank water or not. According to a study, playing Tetris for 3 minutes on your smartphone can help reduce different kinds of cravings. This includes food cravings. (9 ) You’re too lazy not to give it a try.
3. Drink Some Coffee
Although more research is needed, it seems that coffee can suppress acute energy intake. It seems that caffeine can reduce the intake of energy in a short period of time. (10 ) How does this work? After drinking coffee, people tend to eat less. Even if you give in to your craving, you’ll have a better chance of not overdoing it. A second study suggests that decaffeinated caffeine may help to suppress appetite even further! ( 11 )
4. Brush your teeth
The trick works in two ways. It might trick your mind into thinking the meal has ended. Even if you are not able to trick your brain, the minty toothpaste flavor will leave a bad taste in your mouth. It won’t be as tasty…
Do you crave something sweet?
Cravings range from sweet, savory to fatty. Sugar cravings can be the most difficult to control. We have some extra tips and food alternatives to help you curb those sugar cravings.
HOW TO STOP Cravings All Day Long
5. Eat More Protein
Here’s why protein is your best friend against cravings:
- Increased protein intake can reduce cravings (12 )
- ( 13)
- Protein keeps you full longer (13)
6. Do a light workout
One study found that it could make you eat half the amount of chocolate you would have eaten otherwise. A study showed that you might only eat half as much chocolate as you would otherwise. (15 )
7. Avoid getting too hungry
You’re more likely to succumb to your hunger if you are hungry. That’s it. Don’t wait until it’s too late to find solutions. If you’re prone to hungry pangs, plan your meals in advance and keep a nutritious snack on hand. It can be helpful to eat small meals throughout the day to maintain your blood sugar levels. You won’t have sudden cravings for food.
HOW TO STOP Cravings Long-Term
8. GET ENOUGH SLEEP
Insufficient sleep may increase your cravings and affect your appetite. ( 32) Unfortunately the importance sleep often gets overlooked when it comes fitness and weight loss.
We become accustomed to sleep less and don’t notice its effects. We become cranky, hungry and unhappy. We blame work, stress or lack of time. Lack of sleep is often the cause. These 7 foods will help you fall asleep!
9. Mindful Eating
Mindful eating is closely related to mindfulness. In general, mindfulness is about being aware and present in the moment. You can practice mindfulness in relation to eating and food. (17 )
Indiana State University conducted a study to test the effects of mini-meditations before eating or during the urge to binge. The meditation involved focusing on the behavior, beliefs and emotions related to food consumption. The meditation group showed a reduction in the frequency and severity of hunger attacks.
Although binge eating and cravings may not be the same, they can occur together. Other more recent studies are exploring the ability of meditation to change these behaviors. (15)
10. THINK LONG-TERM
While it is unrealistic to think that rational thought can stop a craving, taking a step away and visualizing long-term effects helps some people better manage their cravings.
Some of the possible consequences include:
- Reduced energy levels
- Negative moods and mood swings
- Obesity and diabetes: health risks
Did you know?
According to a study, “comfort foods” like junk food don’t always provide the same “comfort” as other food types. Other experiments are being conducted to test this “myth” of comfort food. You can satisfy your cravings with a healthier version. (20 )
It is important to learn how to distinguish between hunger and cravings of sweet or salty food. You will soon be able understand your body signals if you follow our tips.