We have all experienced and succumbed to food cravings – that overwhelming urge to consume a specific type of food which is often highly processed and full of sugar, salt and/or fat.
Cravings are caused by areas of the brain that are responsible for pleasure, reward and memory. They may also arise as a result of an imbalance in hormones such as leptin and serotonin.
Food cravings can often be a major stumbling block for those of us trying to sustain a healthy weight or transition to a healthier diet. Whilst surrendering to food cravings on the rare occasion is ok, we can risk long term health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, high cholesterol and high blood pressure if we do it all the time.
If you struggle regularly with food cravings, try some of the following:
- Stay hydrated – thirst can often be confused with hunger so remain hydrated throughout the day.
- Ensure you are getting enough sleep – this will help keep the body’s hormonal balance in check.
- Get more protein – studies have shown that protein is the most filling macronutrient, therefore, having a diet with adequate protein will keep you feeling fuller for longer.
- Try food substitutions – if you usually crave sweetness, try swapping out the candy bar for a piece of fruit, or replace a chocolate bar with a piece of dark chocolate.
- Set small goals – practice changing just one food craving at a time.
- Relieve stress – don’t turn to food during stressful periods, rather find alternative ways of coping with stress such as brisk walks, warm baths, meditation, playing your favourite music or calling a friend.
- Remove the temptation – keep foods that pose the biggest temptation out of the house altogether.
- Avoid getting overly hungry – have healthy snacks prepped and close at hand at all times.
- Chew gum – chewing keeps the mouth occupied and may reduce sugar and salt cravings.
Keen to try Outdoor Grit?
Outdoor Grit is the new outdoor group fitness provider in Adelaide, specialising in functional health and fitness services for all. We are based in Prospect, at St. Helen’s Park, on 39 Prospect Road, Prospect.
We offer early and mid-morning sessions on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday as well as Tuesday afternoons. As our group continues to grow, we endeavour to grow our session times too. This is something we will do in consultation with our members, so we can offer more session times that work in with your varied schedules.
To book in your free intro session, click on the link below:
https://outdoorgrit.sites.zenplanner.com/freeTrial.cfm
We can’t wait to see you at one of our upcoming sessions.
Dayna Jackiw – Co-Founder Outdoor Grit
Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach