For many of us avoiding our favourite foods can seem impossible! When we have been too strict we start to crave sugars, salt, caffeine and chocolate. We then binge on what we have been denying ourselves for so long. This then puts us on fast track to weight gain & poor health and so the cycle begins…

There are many theories why we get cravings. One is that a craving is an attempt to supply the body with a nutrient that we are lacking or another could be an emotional comfort. Because treats are used as rewards when we are younger, as adults we then rely on comfort foods when we are down as a pick me up reward. Diets, hormones, tiredness and lack of food after exercise can all attribute to our desires for certain foods.

We need to be aware of our individual triggers and what moods or situations we are in when we get cravings. Keeping a food diary detailing when you crave foods and what is going on at the time, this can help you later identify these things and avoid overeating when you get these cravings again. Knowing why and when you get these cravings is the first step in getting over them.

The number one thing is to remember that you can control the cravings using different strategies.

Sacrificing Everything to stay lean is a big mistake! Its is really important to stay strict when planing to losing weight but next to impossible to keep up for a long period of time.

Life is just to short, here some tips to help you on your way.

Curb your craving DONT'S:

DONT Wait too long between meals. (Women need to eat approximately every 3-4 hours, Males 4-5 hours)

DONT Cut out entire food groups from your diet unless instructed by health professionals

DONT Stop indulging all together. Moderation will help you maintain more of a balanced diet, as you are less inclined to pig out.

DONT Forget to use other things to take your mind off these cravings. Often we snack because we are bored


Curb the cravings DO'S:

DO Restock your fridge with healthy and easily accessible snack options.

DO Choose lower GI foods because they will keep you fuller for longer

DO Skip processed and packaged foods. Take-away and pre packed meals are often full of sugar, salt, artificial flavours so the more you have of them the more you actual crave the ‘added extra’ in your normal foods.

DO Change your habits. Mix up your routine especially at the times you experience your cravings.

For more information contact Evolve personal training on 0416257721.