5 ways to control your junk food cravings

From watching your portions to getting enough sleep, find out how to curb your cravings

You have to admit that junk food cravings can be your worst enemy. Whether you are on a diet or just watching your weight, it is almost impossible to give up on your favourite comfort food. Compiled from Pinkvilla, here is a list of five ways to curb your cravings in a jiffy.

1. Drink water

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Water is the most essential nutrient. If you are craving sweets, it could be because your body is thirsty. We often confuse thirst with hunger. Try drinking a big glass of water when you are craving junk food; wait for a few minutes and you will soon realise that the craving is gone. This is a very good trick for people who are on a diet. Having fruit juices and green tea before a meal will make you feel full. This will help in reducing your calorie intake.

2. Eat when hungry

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If you starve yourself until dinner, you are likely to binge on your favourite food in the meanwhile. Try eating a plate of fruits between your meals. This trick will not make you crave junk food and will keep your stomach full until your next meal.

3. Have smaller meals

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Eat small meals throughout the day. If you have a tendency to eat two big meals a day, increase it to four small meals throughout the day. This will keep your body loaded with sugar, carbohydrates and proteins and in turn control your cravings.

4. Get enough sleep

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Your appetite is largely affected by the hormones that fluctuate throughout the day. An irregular sleeping pattern hampers these hormone levels which in turn lead to craving junk food. Most people become obese because of this issue.

5. Stop watching food videos

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Do you feel the urge to reach out for a bag of chips while watching food videos? It is probably your favourite food show which is making you crave for the delicious food they make. Refrain from watching such a show if you find a regularity in your cravings. Little changes can make a huge difference.

Cravings are very common and most of us experience them in daily life. However, they play a major role in food addiction, weight gain and binge eating. Being aware of these cravings and understanding what triggers them can help you curb them.

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