There’s many reasons behind feeling ‘munchy’ and WHY we actually get cravings, but I know that’s not what you want to know, right! Especially when doing my Challenges! The most common question I get when it comes to food is, WHAT should one do during these times…
Unfortunately seeing fast food ads a dozen times a day, will cause you to start thinking about it more, potentially resulting in cravings! Now many people say that your body is trying to signal certain deficiencies through cravings! In my opinion, it’s a myth! Personally, I’ve never met a person badly craving a garden salad and very few people are actually meeting the recommended veggie intake guidelines. Instead, we crave foods with HIGH content of added sugars and unhealthy fats. In this case, all your body is trying to tell you is that you really want a cookie. Unfortunately, whilst knowing the reasons behind food cravings is helpful to some extent, on its own it doesn’t always provide enough motivation to put that tub of ice cream back in the freezer after you’ve already had a bedtime snack!
NOURISH YOUR BODY: 80% whole foods, 20% soul foods.
FOCUS ON YOUR SLEEP: This is plain and simple – ensure you’re sleeping 7-9 hours a night! GIRL, I KNOW! You simply can’t afford to neglect that snooze! #GuiltyToo
BE MINDFUL OF YOUR HORMONES: As women, our hormones – especially cycle-related changes – can wreak havoc on how we feel, including unsolicited food cravings. Once you get period cravings, very few things can stop you from attacking that pantry, so make sure there are no temptations there to start with! Surround yourself with nutritious foods and if you must, indulge in a small serving of whatever you’re craving – not a family-sized packet.
IT’S LARGELY IN YOUR HEAD: How many times have you told yourself that you need something sweet after dinner? Guess what… YOU DON’T NEED ANYTHING!
Girls, just know that sometimes it’s OK to just have what you want! However, if you find that reaching for certain foods hinders your progress and occupies your mind, try the tips above, and kill the cravings for good!
Much love, Lei x