Hi Hungry Girl,
I can avoid idle snacking all day long… until the evening hits. I get bored, and I start to snack. Before I know it, one snack turns into three or four. Any tips on how to curb those post-dinner munchies?
No Sleep 'Til Snackin'
Hi Snackin',
I 100% relate to this. At the end of a long day, it’s a little too easy to slip out of your healthy habits along with your work shoes. But rather than counteract all the good-for-you choices you made during the day, here are a few tips to help you end the day strong…
My New Weapon: Intermittent Fasting
I've recently hopped on the bandwagon with
intermittent fasting, and it’s made such a difference. I set a window of “eating time” for the day, and that ends after dinner. I’m a good rule follower, so this one really works for me! There’s no room to negotiate for little extras afterward, because post-dinner eating is off the table… Literally!
Stay Accountable: Track Your Food
I'm a big believer in food journaling. Having to write down "three handfuls of pretzels, five pieces of candy, etc." kinda takes the fun out of that snack. You don’t need a fancy journal or calorie-counting app (although those can be helpful). I just scribble down my food on a piece of paper!
Down a Glass of Water… or Two
You’ve probably heard this before, but even if you’re a little bit dehydrated, you may think you’re hungry when you’re really just thirsty. Chug some water, and wait 15 minutes to see how you feel. If ice-cold water doesn’t do it for you, try it room-temp or warm. I also like a mug of hot water with lemon to fight off those cravings.
So, You Definitely Need a Snack?
It happens! Just choose wisely. Keep a stash of low-calorie snacks that’ll satisfy your need to eat without doing too much damage to your overall calorie intake. Raw veggies are great for this. Try cucumber slices sprinkled with everything bagel seasoning, jicama sticks, or red pepper strips dunked in salsa. If it’s your sweet tooth that’s calling, try a low-cal hot cocoa packet, dessert-flavored tea, or a sugar-free popsicle.
Feed Your Boredom
No, not with junk food! I mean give yourself a nightly activity to take your mind off of eating. Grab a magazine or a book, watch
Dateline (like me!), bundle up for a short walk outside (or do some
Housewalking inside), play a game (with family or even just on your phone)… anything that keeps your brain AND hands too busy to snack.
When in Doubt, Get Ready for Bed
One of the best tricks to switch off a nagging craving? Brush your teeth. Something about the minty taste helps shut down cravings. Plus, everything tastes weird and unappetizing for a while after you brush your teeth. When all else fails, consider heading to bed early -- sleep is good for you, and it's the ultimate way to give cravings the cold shoulder. Lack of sleep can even make you MORE likely to snack.
The Truth About Intermittent Fasting… This Week on the HG Podcast!
Listen in as Lisa goes one on one with the compelling Dr. Melina B. Jampolis, a board-certified physician nutrition specialist (one of only a few hundred in the US)! They’re answering your questions on all things intermittent fasting (IF). Questions like…
⭑ What are the benefits of IF?
⭑ Can I drink coffee & other beverages while I’m fasting?
⭑ How does IF help with weight loss?
… and so much more! Plus, Lisa shares her personal experience with IF: how she uses it & how it’s helped her. This is a can’t-miss episode.
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