When times are stressful it can be easy to turn to food for comfort. This isn’t always a bad thing, but it can spiral into a habit if you’re not careful. So what’s the best way to resist these urges? Thankfully we have steps you can take to avoid giving into cravings.
Delay
Cravings can feel like they last forever. This can make the effort you give into resisting so much harder. Cravings don’t last forever though! In fact, they only last about 25 to 30 minutes. So the best way to put off giving into your cravings is by taking it 5 minutes at a time. Delaying going to the pantry by 5 minutes at a time can help you resist your cravings.
Distract
While you are delaying going to the pantry, finding a healthy and joyful distraction is a good way to pass the time. It’s easier to delay when you’re distracting yourself. Finding an optimistic distraction that gives you the same pleasure that giving into your craving does.
Distance
While delaying and distracting, it’s best to avoid areas where there might be food. Being close to the pantry while resisting the urge to snack can be counter productive. By distancing yourself from the kitchen or pantry, you’ll find it much easier to avoid unnecessary snacking.
Determination
Oftentimes what separates those who lose weight and those who only dream about it is the determination they each have. If you’re following the previous steps and still find yourself giving in, it’s time to remind yourself while you’re resisting. Why you’re on this fitness journey. Why you want to lose weight and maintain it. By being determined and keeping your goal in your sights, you’ll find yourself ending cravings before they have a chance to manifest and grow.
Decide
If all of our steps don’t work and you find yourself giving in, the last thing you can do is temper the results of giving in. What does this mean? It means making the decision to only snack a little bit, or by settling at the table to enjoy it. By choosing to only snack a little bit and taking the time to savor every bite, you’re less likely to snack again anytime soon.
By following these steps, you can stop your cravings before you start. This will not only benefit you physically, but it will improve your mental and emotional health.