New tricks for curbing cravings

Lately it seems that many folks are struggling with cravings, so here are the latest research-proven ways for curbing them:

• Innoculate.

If you are beginning to crave a junky treat, load up on a healthier version of a similar flavor, so that your taste buds get sick of it. For example, if you are craving pizza, eat tomatoes and lowfat cheese. For pasta cravings try spiralized zucchini noodles or Shirataki noodles with tomato sauce and parmesan. If you are beginnng to crave chocolate mint ice cream, try putting cocoa powder and mint extract in almond milk.

• Daydream.

It sounds corny, but a recent study found that daydreaming about happy things helped reduce cravings, especially after a little practice, and when incorporating happy sights, sounds and smells.

• Distract.

Especially if you can find distractions that keep your hands busy, like knitting, video games, or giving your honey a foot massage.

• Avoid sneaky triggers.

Because of “taste bud ping pong”, there are some seemingly-innocent foods that can trigger cravings. Top offenders are coffee, anything salty (even cottage cheese or canned tuna or deli meat), and anything very sweet (even natural sweeteners, like stevia.) One strong taste–even if it was a nutritious or calorie-free food–can send you craving the opposite taste.

• Play the gratitude game.

Again, it sounds corny, but spending just a few minutes writing and/or stating things for which you are grateful has been shown to help people eat healthier and resist cravings…and boost mood!

• Stay relaxed and well-rested.

Easier said than done, I know, but keep in mind that when you choose to burn the candle at both ends, you also are choosing to increase your cravings.

Okey dokey. Good luck!