Watching calories and maintaining a healthy diet would so be so much easier, if (yes, the dreadful “if”) there were no cravings or temptations. However, fear not because there are ways you can curb those late-night and boredom cravings. Keep reading to find out how you can control temptation with these healthy nutrition tips.
Drink Water
Drinking lots of water will keep you a little bloated so you are less likely to crave unhealthy items. Drinking a glass of water before meals will also partially fill up your stomach and you are less likely to overeat or binge on junk food.
Break Down Food Portions
Instead of eating three large meals in a day, break down your meals into smaller portions and consume them at shorter intervals. This way, you can sustain your body’s fuel and won’t get random pangs of hunger.
Out of Sight, Out Of Mind
Don’t keep tempting foods around the house. If you see it, you will probably want to eat it. When boredom strikes, you will be reaching out for that box of cookies as a reflex.
Stock Up Your Fridge
Go grocery shopping and purchase lots of healthy items. When you have healthy ingredients in your house, you are more likely to make a healthy meal yourself. Otherwise, you will reach out for your phone and order greasy take-out food. Also, when hunger strikes at random times, you will have a healthy snack to eat as well.
Record Goals and Calories
This might sound tedious, but calculating your daily calorie intake will actually motivate you to stay on track. When you pick up your favourite candy bar and read the label saying 600 calories, you are less likely to give in to that temptation.
Take Lots of Protein and Fiber
One of the best healthy nutrition tips is to eat lots of protein and fiber because it digests slowly and you stay full for longer. Plus, soluble fiber found in fresh fruits and vegetables soaks up sugar like a sponge.
Rationalize During Temptation
When you do find yourself picking up a favorite treat, ask yourself, “Do I really need to eat this? Am I eating out of boredom? How many calories does it have?” Answering these questions will help you rationalize your cravings and temptations.
Distract Yourself to Prevent Boredom Eating
If you are craving something too much, distract yourself so your mind gets occupied by something else. Call a friend or start reading a book to dissolve those ‘sinful’ thoughts.
Have Something to Look Forward To
It’s important to occasionally indulge in your favorite treats to tame your temptations. Pick a day of the week for when you can indulge in your favourite goodie. This way, you have something to look forward to when that craving sets in. This is one of the most crucial healthy nutrition tips.
Get Proper Sleep
Sleep deprivation increases temptations to indulge in high-calorie foods, so get lots of shut-eye time.
