Are you constantly craving starchy, salty, and sugary foods while on a diet?
This is an intense desire that you can almost go crazy. The hunger that you feel is not simple and you want to binge eat specific foods. Don’t worry, this stage of the diet is extremely normal. Total Shape has a master list of the things you can do to stop cravings and boost weight loss.
All of them are very easy to handle if you have discipline.
Have a Routine
Cravings strike often when you don’t have a routine. What time do you wake up? What are your regular activities for the day? Make sure you eat regular meals at least an hour before renewing your activity. This will give you enough time to convert food into energy and avoid cravings for unhealthy foods.
Manage Stress Levels
This might sound common but usually ignored. Humans can’t stop stress but we can manage its levels. When you are at the peak of your stress, it can result in an eating disorder, one of which is satisfying cravings through binge eating.
Food cravings due to stress lead to a higher body mass index (BMI). It changes your body as you change your mood. You can restart by planning your routine and avoid anything that can make you anxious.
Drink a Lot of Water
You’re not hungry, you’re just thirsty. Always put this in your thoughts. Hunger and thirst can produce almost similar sensations. If you are craving food, drink a glass of water or two, then wait for a few minutes and reassess if you’re still hungry. In case you still want to eat, have a small portion of a snack and drink water again.
Stay extra hydrated! It has a lot of benefits.
Brew a Cup of Coffee or Tea
Brewed coffee and brewed tea have zero calories. A warm cup of this drink will surely help you forget your cravings. Look at the scene on your balcony or watch the news while drinking. It helps you enjoy every sip. When you are relaxed, your hormones are in balance. This means no sudden cravings will arise.
Get Enough Rest
Not getting enough rest changes your body’s hormonal balance. It can be the reason why you get irritated too easily. Lack of sleep can also cause you to crave sweets and salty foods to replace the energy that you should get from sleep. This can result in unwanted weight gain.
Make Fruits as Snacks
Well, not all fruits should be considered. Avoid those fruits which are high in sugar such as grapes and mangoes. You can go for bananas, apples, melons, strawberries, and oranges. These fruits are refreshing and nutritious too. You can make frozen fruits or fruit shake as your treat. It mimics the taste of desserts like candy. It can stop you from eating processed juices and foods.
Eat Enough Protein
Protein is a great source of energy. If you are not on a vegan diet, you eat one boiled egg for a snack. You can also stock up on some jerky and chew one strip whenever hunger strikes. Protein suppresses appetite and reduces ghrelin.
