5 Tips to Beat Food Cravings

People often mistakenly think vegans or vegetarians “can’t” be overweight. But we all know that’s not true. Food choices are what determine this, for the most part. And, of course, there are often unseen factors that can come into play, as well. Just ask any committed calorie-counter with insulin resistance who isn’t letting go of weight like they hope and “should”.

So, what’s a couple extra pounds? Is it really THAT big a deal? 

If you remember from our ebook we were sharing last year (and our members get in the VMP package)…

Each extra pound can increase your risk of some pretty serious diseases, largely due to the inflammation that is often present, as well. 

Well, whether it’s a sudden desire for a slice of chocolate cake or a craving for salty snacks, it’s essential to find ways to stop food cravings while maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle. 

Below you’ll find five effective tips to help you conquer food cravings and make healthier choices, and give you access to a great guide by our friends at Cause Health, including a journal you can use to crush the cravings, fast. 

1. Understand the Craving

The first step in conquering food cravings is to understand them. Cravings can stem from various factors such as emotional triggers, boredom, or nutrient deficiencies.

When you feel a strong craving, take a moment to reflect on the specific nature of your craving. Are you genuinely hungry, or is it more of an emotional response?

Understanding the underlying cause will empower you to address the root issue more effectively.

2. Stay Hydrated

Believe it or not, dehydration can sometimes masquerade as hunger and trigger unnecessary food cravings. When faced with a craving, begin by drinking a refreshing glass of water and give yourself a few minutes. If the craving persists, it might be genuine hunger. However, if it subsides, it was likely thirst in disguise. Staying well-hydrated throughout the day can help minimize cravings and keep your body in balance.

3. Opt for Nutrient-Dense Foods

Cravings for unhealthy foods can often indicate a lack of essential nutrients. As a vegan or vegetarian, it’s crucial to choose nutrient-dense foods that align with your plant-based lifestyle. If you find yourself having cravings for junk food, it’s even more vital to incorporate a diverse range of whole plant foods into your meals, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and nuts. These foods provide the necessary vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, satiate your hunger, and reduce the likelihood of cravings.

4. Practice Mindful Eating

Mindful eating is a powerful tool for stopping food cravings. Instead of mindlessly snacking or giving in to impulse, take the time to eat with awareness. For example, when a craving arises, pause and inquire whether it stems from genuine hunger or emotional triggers. 

Also, engage your senses while eating, savoring each plant-based bite and paying attention to the flavors and textures. 

Eating mindfully allows you to tune in to your body’s signals, make conscious choices, and prevent overeating or impulsive snacking.

5. Plan for Delicious Vegan Alternatives

When food cravings strike, having satisfying alternatives readily available can make all the difference. 

Plan ahead by stocking your pantry and refrigerator with nutritious and delicious snacks. Fresh fruits, plant-based yogurt, raw nuts, and veggie sticks with hummus are excellent choices. 

Additionally, find healthier versions of your favorite indulgences, like a no-sugar-added dark chocolate, or air-popped popcorn instead of potato chips. By having these alternatives on hand, you can fulfill your cravings without without derailing your healthy eating habits

Food cravings are a common challenge for all dietary choices and lifestyles, but with the right strategies, you can overcome them and make healthier choices. By understanding the nature of your cravings, staying hydrated, choosing nutrient-dense foods, practicing mindful eating, and planning for healthy alternatives, you’ll be better equipped to conquer those cravings and stay on track towards a fully balanced and nourishing lifestyle. 

Remember, it’s really about making sustainable choices that support your overall well-being over the long term.. So, next time a craving strikes, take a moment to reflect and see what empowered choices you have and can make.

AND… As we mentioned, you can go even deeper into and get instant access to a wonderful book by EFT Tapping Goddess (my phrase, haha) Carol Look and our friends at Cause Health.