I'll bake some brownies to take to work, but I won't eat any.
I'll go to the movie, but I'll pass up the popcorn.
I'll put the candy bowl on my desk because others enjoy it. I won't eat it myself.
You don't have to be a mind reader to guess the outcome of these situations. Odds are, the baker has the brownies, the movie-goer eats popcorn, and the desk occupant nibbles the candy.
Food Cues
These scenarios are examples of the power of food cues. Think of food cues as reminders to eat. Thousands of cues can trigger eating, even when you're not hungry. Common cues are the sight or smell of food, a stressful event, celebrations, meeting a friend, watching TV, boredom, holidays, and on and on. Trying to ignore these cues is like trying not to think about pink elephants when someone tells you not to think about pink elephants. It backfires nearly every time.
Instead of trying to ignore food cues, follow this tried-and-true adage: out of sight, out of mind.
Clear finger foods from the counter, desk, bag, and car.
Leave tempting foods at the supermarket.
Start a trend toward cookie-free afternoon meetings and gatherings.
Getting rid of non-hunger food cues is a good start toward healthier eating. The next step is to stock your kitchen with healthful, flavorful, enjoyable foods. Imagine opening your refrigerator to see an array of fresh fruits and vegetables, fat-free milk and yogurt, and lean meats. Think of your cupboards stocked with whole-grain snacks, nutritious soups, and dried fruits and nuts. Envision your freezer filled with prepared meals and frozen snacks that you can feel good about.
Our new line of Healthy Choice® Complete Selections is the perfect choice for enjoyment and health. These delicious balanced meals come complete with dessert. We know that enjoying dessert in sensible portions, instead of depriving yourself, actually can help you follow through with healthier eating for the long run.
Cravings
Reducing food cues and stocking your kitchen with smart food choices are two powerful ways to eat better. But how does one tackle another common culprit: food cravings?
From pickles during pregnancy to chocolate during stress, nearly everyone has experienced a food craving. A craving is described as a strong or intense desire or longing. How food cravings are handled can make or break attempts to meet your nutrition goals.
Studies show that for many people, especially women, food deprivation and subsequent cravings can lead to overeating of the desired food. The age-old notion of forbidden fruit holds true. Instead of depriving yourself and overdoing it later, incorporate enjoyment, not deprivation, into your meals and snacks. Conquer those food cravings with healthier choices. Get started with these tips.
