They are the reason why many people struggle with the choice to change their lifestyle. They make us miserable. They make us feel deprived. They are all that is evil in the frightening world of will-power. I'm talking about cravings. It seems as soon as we decide to make some changes, before we even finish the thought or plan our first menu, the cravings dig their claws in. Before I ever skip my first urge to fill a bowl with ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate sauce and toffee bits, the cravings are hanging over me, menacingly, waiting for me to say "no" so they can pummel me from the inside. It is truly one of the most difficult things to contend with on this side of the mountain.
But it does get easier. As soon as we train our brains and bellies to make good choices as a reflex instead of bad ones, the cravings will lessen. In the meantime, I have found a few things that work for me. Remember: choosing to live a healthy lifestyle is not about self-deprivation but about self-discipline.
1. Chew sugar-free fruit flavored or mint gum. I chew gum because it helps to distract my tastebuds for a while so I can concentrate on other things.
2. Grab a piece of fruit. I can hear the lament: "Fruit??" Yes, I said fruit. Something I never thought I'd hear myself say. If you are not already a fan of a variety of fruits, DO NOT go out and spend $40 on produce because I'll tell you right now, it will go to waste and you will be out the forty bucks. Instead, stock up on fruit you know you like, and try one new variety at a time. Also, the sugar in the fruit will help ease that craving.
3. Fix a plate of veggies. Instead of indulging with a handful of Oreos (and another one later on.. and another one after that...) make a conscious decision to put something better in your body. Envision a battle between your wellness and bad decisions. Work on the side of wellness, and to better yourself - eat some flippin' broccoli florets and carrot sticks [lightly]dipped in reduced-fat ranch. As Nike says, JUST DO IT.
4. Find sugar-free candy. They are NOT calorie free, so beware how many you eat. I eat sugar-free Reeses to help stave off cravings. They came in handy especially during my first week. I had one when I needed something sweet, two when my cravings were pretty bad.
5. Have a cup of coffee. For some reason coffee works as an appetite supressant for many people. It works for me. I fix a cup with 1-2 tablespoons of fat-free creamer. Coffee House Inspirations by International Delight has at least two that I know of. Sometimes a little Splenda added gives just the right amount of sweetness.
6. Get up and do something. Go around the block for a walk. Meet a friend and go walk at the park. Go walk around the mall (fantasize about the great clothes you'll be able to wear and the cute things you'll fit into from Victoria's Secret!) Start playing tennis again. Get on the Wii. Drag your bike out of the garage. Turn on some up-tempo music and dance. Getting your heart pumping will help distract you!
7. Have a Thomas Lite 100-calorie whole grain English muffin. I like to spread a little peanut butter on mine, or a little fat-free cream cheese!
8. If you absolutely must have something bad, fill up on good stuff first, like a great big salad or a healthy dinner. Then allow yourself a small portion of whatever it is you're craving. Completely depriving yourself will set you up for disaster.
I hope this helps someone who is struggling with cravings. Don't give up!
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