A very important part of weight loss help provided at weight loss clinics and slimming centres is appetite and food management. Managing food cravings is a big step towards success.
Uncontrollable cravings for foods high in sugar, fat and calories lead to unwanted weight gain and compromise weight loss goals.
What are food cravings?
Food cravings are intense yearnings for a certain type of food. Sweet or salty foods are common food cravings as are protein foods such as meat or cheese.
What causes food cravings?
Food cravings could be caused by a number of factors. Some common causes are:
- hormones
- fluctuations in blood sugar levels
- emotional and psychological reasons
- or, sometimes nutritional deficiencies
The ability to recognise and control cravings could be of great help to your weight loss programme or plan.
Stress Cravings
We all have ups and downs in life. Stress, depression and a lack of sleep can cause “junk” food cravings. If you have a lot of pressure at the moment in your life, make sure you watch your diet. Giving in to your cravings may lift your spirits for a bit, but the weight gain and guilt that follow will add to more stress and depression.
Comfort Eating
Same factors could cause turning to the “comfort foods” we associate with pleasant feelings and we overeat these foods when we are stressed, depressed or tired. Try to eat small portions of these and go for the healthier options available.
Energy Fix
Food cravings for quick sugar energy, alcohol, foods or drinks containing caffeine or carbohydrates are common when we are tired and want to feel energized. To help your weight loss programme and satisfy the craving go for small amounts of dark chocolate, black tea / coffee or coffee with a little bit of skimmed milk. Avoid alcohol and processed carbohydrates (cakes, biscuits, pastries etc.)