If you eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep, you’re probably in fairly good shape. But even those who are very strict with their diets struggle with occasional cravings (and they always seem to come at the worst possible times). To help kick your cravings, try these helpful tips from Dr. Joanna Dolgoff, pediatrician and author of Red Light, Green Light, Eat Right!
Trick Your Body: If you’re having a craving for, say, chocolate, give in to it–but just a little bit. Instead of eating chocolate cake or chocolate candy, grab a low-fat chocolate-flavored yogurt. You’ll satisfy your sweet tooth and have the added benefit of calcium.
Chew Gum: If you find yourself reaching for those chips, grab a stick of gum instead. Gum has been proven to reduce food cravings.
Eat Fruit: Many people have cravings for sugar, so try eating fruit instead of sugar-laden desserts. Fruit also contains fiber and vitamins, so you’ll be making a much healthier choice.
Cause a Distraction: If all else fails, try distracting yourself by going on a walk, listening to music, or calling a friend.
For more information: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joanna-dolgoff-md/food-cravings_b_1304342.html?ref=health-and-fitness&;ir=Health%20and%20Fitness.
—Jenna Schubert