We’ve all been there. Whether it’s that time of the month or just a well-produced magazine ad that does you in, every now and then a college girl is faced with a craving for a less-than-healthy food item. While everything is alright in moderation, indulging in these cravings too often can throw your balanced diet off kilter and lead to health problems (including weight gain, skin problems, and trouble sleeping). That’s why knowing how to beat cravings is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. When you feel it getting the best of you, follow these three tips for kicking it:

How to beat cravings:

Drink Up

Believe it or not, dehydration can cause our body to react in all sorts of strange ways. Sometimes, we don’t even feel thirsty, but our brain recognizes that something is missing and processes it as hunger, or a craving for a particular taste like sweet or salty. Couple that with a gooey Dairy Queen blizzard flashing across your TV screen and it’s easy to decide you need that medium oreo. Before you act, pour a tall glass of cold water and drink it slowly. Sometimes it takes 2 or 3 glasses before you’re rehydrated, but this can often squelch even the most nagging of naughty cravings.

Get Moving

Sometimes, cravings are a sign of boredom or emotional eating rather than true hunger. When you find yourself craving unhealthy food, try engaging in some form of physical activity instead. Go for a brisk walk, do a quick workout, or even dance around your room to your favorite tunes. Exercise releases endorphins, which can help improve your mood and reduce stress, making you less likely to turn to comfort food. Plus, it’s a great way to burn off some extra calories and keep you in shape.

Trick Yourself

Just because you think you want a chocolate milkshake, doesn’t mean that’s the only thing that will cure your craving. Try to find healthier alternatives that provide the same fix that your food item would. If you’re craving sweets, some fresh fruit or light yogurt can satisfy your sweet tooth. Need a salty snack? Why not try pickles or microwave popcorn before rushing out to buy a large fry. Sometime it’s not the substance itself, but the flavour or texture you’re really craving, so try finding a healthy substitute to trick your brain into thinking it’s the real deal.

Power Up with Protein

When cravings strike, it might be your body’s way of signaling that it needs fuel. Instead of reaching for sugary treats or salty snacks, consider eating a high-protein snack like Greek yogurt, nuts, or a protein bar. Protein keeps you feeling fuller for longer and can help stabilize blood sugar levels, which means you’ll be less likely to cave into unhealthy cravings. Plus, it’s essential for muscle growth and recovery, especially if you’re hitting the gym regularly.

Mindful Eating

It’s essential to listen to your body and practice mindful eating. When cravings strike, take a moment to assess whether you’re genuinely hungry or simply seeking comfort. If you’re not hungry, try engaging in a relaxing activity, like meditation or deep breathing exercises, to help reduce stress and refocus your thoughts. If you are hungry, choose a healthy and satisfying snack to curb your craving without jeopardizing your diet. Remember, it’s all about balance, and being kind to yourself and your body will ultimately lead to healthier choices.

 

Indulge..a Little

If all else fails, you might need to cave, but try to follow some self-control. Order a small portion of the food you’re craving and eat it slowly. As the craving lessens, consider whether you’re really enjoying the food anymore, or if it’s worth it to toss the rest, or share with a friend. Even just half a chocolate bar might be enough to satisfy your sweet tooth for the night and keep you from eating a whole pint of ice cream in two weeks time when the craving overwhelms you.

What Do You Think?

What foods do you crave the most? Do you indulge or try to control your cravings? Leave a comment or forum post and let us know!

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1 Comment

  1. avatar Madi says:

    great post! the best way to curb a craving altogether is to brush your teeth or pop in a piece of gum to signal to your body that it’s not time to eat. if i’m dying for something but i know i’m not actually hungry then i usually pop in a jolly rancher or suck on a lollipop so i have something to munch on without having too many unnecessary calories.

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