At the stroke of midnight on January 1st you resolved to eat healthier, but the Mid-March blahs are here – and they're taking their toll. Suddenly that Triple Chocolate Fudge cake in the back of your refrigerator seems like the perfect response to a winter that won't end. YOU have three choices: Ignore your craving, give in or find a substitute. For many of us, giving in is the only option – and a small piece can quickly become half the cake or more. Sound familiar? These simple tips from The Skinny Cow® and Toronto-based Registered Dietitian Naomi Orzech can help you win the battle against your cravings:
The Skinny Cow®'s top 10 tips to cheat your cravings
1. Put on your ‘skinny jeans.' The Chocolate Cherry cheesecake's appeal may decrease if your pants are too tight. And remember, E-l-a-s-t-i-c waistbands = overeating.
2. Knit a sweater or snuggle with your partner. Even a five-minute distraction can help ward off cravings.
3. The Skinny Cow® Solution. Looking to satiate your sweet tooth? Try Nestlé® Skinny Cow® frozen desserts – 98% fat free and low in calories with all the creamy richness and taste of the most indulgent, mouth-watering desserts.
4. Curb your foodthusiasm. Eat a moderate amount of the food you crave and immediately pour salt over the leftovers.
5. Feed the beast within. Can't say no – ever? Eat a small amount of the food you crave every day. A chocolate a day can keep binge-eating away.
6. Forget your failures. Succumbed to those oh-so-gooey Chocolate Chip cookies? Don't beat yourself up. Instead, create a plan of attack for your next craving.
7. Mix it up. A varied diet – including carbs, protein, fat and increased fibre – helps you feel full longer, so you'll be less likely to give in to cravings.
8. Ban the bad. Crave-proof your home and office and keep healthy snacks on hand to tackle any hunger attacks. And never, ever go shopping when you're hungry.
9. Brush the Pearlies. A minty-fresh mouth can prevent you from diving into the sweets and can even make your hunger pangs disappear.
10. Keep a food journal. A food record can help you identify eating patterns and cut cravings. For example, if you notice a sugar craving every afternoon, try a healthy snack or change up your lunch.
