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Combat Your Cravings #2Foods to Avoid to Combat CravingsSUGARThe effects of sugar do not live up to its sweet-sounding name. Did you know that the average American consumes an astounding 2-3 pounds of sugar each week? Highly refined sugars in the forms of sucrose (table sugar), dextrose (corn sugar), and high-fructose corn syrup are processed into food and will only lead to food cravings; it is a vicious cycle. The first step in breaking a sugar addiction is educating yourself on what you are consuming. You will know something is high in sugar if it contains one or any of these names appears first or second in the ingredients listed on the food label:
Pre-packaged, processed or “instant” foodsAlthough they may be convenient, processed foods contain chemicals that will only make you more dependent on them. Try avoiding:
Fast Food:Hitting the drive-through once in awhile isn't such a big deal — the problem is that if you do it one time, you're much more likely to swing by again. Fast food has chemicals and hormones that make it addictive and those who frequent fast food restaurants are more likely to pack on the pounds and also lead to an increased risk of Diabetes and other diseases. Behaviors to Avoid to Combat Cravings:Going to the Grocery Store HungryYou will overspend and most importantly buy things you don't want and don't need! I don’t care how strong your willpower is, you will just setting yourself up for self-sabotage if you do this so make sure to snack before you shop! Be smart and implement a food shopping strategy. Designate one day a week as your shopping and food preparation day. By developing this ritual, you become more organized and disciplined. I like to do my grocery shopping on Sunday evenings- I feel like I have the whole store to myself! Skipping BreakfastYour mom was right when she said that breakfast was the most important meal of the day. Always make sure to eat within the first hour after rising in order to jumpstart your metabolism and burn more calories throughout the day. People think that they are saving calories when they skip breakfast but it’s really quite the opposite. Make sure to have your “Breakfast of Champions” and that you have a balance of protein and complex carbs Ex: egg whites and oatmeal. Keeping Unhealthy Food Choices Around YouWhy sabotage yourself? It is the common law of nature- once something is in your sight you want it! How many times has this happened to you? How many times have you triggered your own food craving by keeping that candy bar in your desk drawer or that batch of cookies in your kitchen? It’s only natural to want a bite when you see it. As the saying goes- out of sight, out of mind! Keep that snack food out of your surroundings! Other Ways to Reduce Your Cravings:Eat RegularlyBy eating 4-5 small meals per day you will keep your metabolism & blood sugar levels in check and keep your cravings at ease. ExerciseAny kind of exercise will helps you release endorphins, improve your mood and help you combat your cravings, especially if you can schedule your workout at the specific times that your cravings occur. Relieve StressMedia and marketing has programmed people to turn to food as their outlet whenever they become stressed. By discovering alternative ways to relieve your stress, you will soon be able to channel your stressors into something positive. Try taking a brisk ten minute walk the next time that your nerves get rattled! You may also want to try incorporating yoga or mediation into your routine at least once a week |