August 02, 2017 - by - in Nutrition

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Americans are eating more food, more often. In fact, the frequency with which we eat has increased by nearly 30 percent since the 1970s, according to CNN. Give mindless munching the boot and take control of your future. When you shift attention away from food and toward stimulating activities, you redirect your energy while the craving passes. And it always passes. Fuel your body, mind and soul by indulging in these 25 healthy alternatives to snacking:

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1. Meditate

Practicing mindfulness involves focusing on your breath and your present environment, and it can take your mind off the impulse to eat. Gaiam features some simple meditations anyone can do.

2. List the reasons you want to lose weight

The simple power of listing your weight loss goals and why you want to meet them can refocus the mind and strengthen your resolve.

3. Play with your kids

Or your nieces and nephews, grandkids, the kids next door, etc. Play a game, color, throw a ball around. It’s a simple reminder of what you want to live for.

4. Go for a walk

Short bursts of exercise help reduce the urge to snack, according to a PLOS One study. Fresh air and a brisk walk can do wonders for the spirit.

5. Help someone

Acts of kindness take us out of ourselves and redirect our thoughts from what we think we need or want to others’ well-being. Feed your need for philanthropy.

6. Brush your teeth

When the toothpaste hits your taste buds, cravings tend to fade. Peanut butter cup ice cream does not go well with arctic mint.

7. Write in a journal

Studies show that journaling reduces stress and anxiety and can help boost self-confidence. Jot down your goals and dreams or do a “feelings check.” Are you bored? Sad? Angry? Get it down on paper and look at it.

8. Surf the web

Whether it’s social media or current events that peak your interest, log in to keep your mind out of the refrigerator. You can even find weight loss support boards to participate in.

9. Do yoga

Exercise allows you to deal with stress without involving food. Yoga marries mindfulness and stretching for an ideal redirection activity.

10. Slice veggies for the week

Meal prep your way to fighting hunger pangs by slicing up carrots, celery and cucumber.

11. Say affirmations

Buddha said, “What we think, we become.” Say positive affirmations – out loud – when the desire to snack hits. Try, “I take loving, healthy care of my body. I eat only when hungry and I make good food choices.”

12. Call a friend

Chat about your favorite show or their recent vacation. Just no food talk.

13. Listen to energetic music

Dance – it’s great exercise, and it helps you feel happy.

14. Have a big glass of ice water

When the urge to snack strikes, turn to H2O to quench your thirst and wash away food cravings. Many times, when we turn to snacking, it’s because we’re thirsty, not hungry.

15. Watch funny YouTube videos

Laughter can take your mind off anything.

16. Clean out the closet

You know the one we mean. Get the junk drawer while you’re at it.

17. Read

Outsmart a food craving by getting into a good book. Check out the current New York Times Best Sellers list.

18. Head to the spa

Treat yourself to a facial, massage or pedicure when the cravings are at their strongest. You’ve been working hard and deserve some pampering.

19. Make a collage

Gather up imagery that represents you reaching your goals, and work on it when the snacks call.

20. Practice deep breathing

Slowly take in a deep breath, hold it and release slowly. In through the nose, out through the mouth. Repeat 10 times.

21. Try on clothes

This may be the last thing you want to do when hunger strikes (or ever, really) – but it sure is motivating.

22. Create art

Paint, draw, knit – whatever your hobby, keep your hands busy.

23. Use aromatherapy

Bergamot and jasmine essential oils are believed to reduce the desire for sweets.

24. Get sweaty

Go for a job or hit the gym and release those precious endorphins. Get a mental buzz going.

jogging 25 healthy alternatives to snacking

25. Take a bubble bath

Light candles, put on soft music and sink into the warm luxury of a bath.

Snacking is one of the largest hurdles on the road to weight loss. No matter if it’s stress, habit, or true hunger putting your hand in the cookie jar, you can conquer your urge to eat. To keep yourself in check, empty the kitchen of your favorite unhealthy foods; break the cycle, and propel yourself to the lifestyle you crave.

 

Are you considering weight loss surgery? Contact Soma Weight Loss to set up a free weight loss consultation in one of our three Los Angeles locations. We would love to talk to you about how bariatric surgery can help you lead a healthier, more vibrant life.

Marisol Avendano

Marisol Avendano is a Registered Nurse (RN) at Soma Weight Loss, where she has worked closely with bariatric surgery patients for over two years. Marisol received her B.S. in Nursing and Public Health from West Coast University in Irvine, California.

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