6 Simple Hacks to Curb Your Cravings

By Jenn Giurgevich

Last month we talked about the tips, tricks, and tools that I keep in my emotional eating toolbox, and I’m back with six more. Here’s to happy and healthy eating!

Don’t ignore your cravings – find a healthier option

If you have a sweet tooth after dinner, grab a square of dark chocolate (75% or more cacao). If you’re craving something salty and fried, bake up some sweet potato fries by tossing sweet potato slivers with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and baking them in the oven. If heavy carbs are your medicine of choice, grab a thin-crust pizza with all your favorite veg toppings.

Eat regular meals throughout the day

It sounds simple but it’s often overlooked! Skipping or delaying meals can you leave you feeling hangry, potentially resulting in binges on unhealthier options. Keep your cravings at bay and your blood sugar balanced by eating every three to four hours, and before you’re feeling really hungry.

Space out your protein

Every time you eat make sure you include a source of protein. It’s a key player in helping you feel fuller longer and helping you regulate your appetite. Proteins include beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, lean meats, poultry, fish, shellfish, eggs, lower-fat milk, and lower-fat dairy products.

Don’t restrict your carbs

Our bodies need carbs to function! Restricting carbs can result in our bodies craving sugar for fuel. Choose carbs higher in fibre (like whole grains), and eat more of your carbs around the times of day that you’re most active.

Add natural sweetness to your meals

Incorporate small amounts of natural sugars to add flavour to your meals, and your body and taste buds won’t feel so deprived. Try fresh fruit slices in your salads, dried fruit in your morning oatmeal, or adding sweeter vegetables like squash or sweet potato to your dishes.

Learn about your food

Everything I know about what sugar does to the body goes out the door when someone puts a piece of chocolate in front of me. BUT, the more we learn about the benefits of healthy foods, the more we consciously want to fill our plates with the good stuff. Knowledge is power, and in this case, it’s also the secret to curbing your cravings.

Jenn Giurgevich is the founder of Spark Nutrition & Health, a virtual nutrition consulting business. Visit www.sparknutritionandhealth.ca for more info on how she can help you build a positive relationship with food and exercise… and ignite your best self! Follow her on Instagram at @sparknutritionandhealth and on FB @mysparkdietitian for more healthy eating tips and some of my favorite recipes.

Jenn Giurgevich is the founder of Spark Nutrition & Health, a virtual nutrition consulting business.
Visit www.sparknutritionandhealth.ca for more information.