6 Foolproof Ways to Beat Sweet Cravings to Stay On Track!
Friday, March 3, 2017
If you're still keeping your fitness resolution, congratulations! I've gotten a bit sidetracked by the flu and a stomach bug back-to-back, but I'm still going. :) One of the biggest ways people get off track is with cravings and one of the most common of those is for something sweet. We all have those moments when our sweet tooth seems to be screaming for attention. Obviously, we can't always feed the dragon, but what can we do to beat it? A key part of health and wellness is all about seeking balance through mindful consumption and I've got six foolproof ways you can beat those sweet cravings and stay on track with your fitness goals.
#1. Eat Right
When you take the time to eat the right foods and to eat regular meals, you're less likely to have cravings. You want to eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, but also proteins that can help keep you feeling fuller, longer. When your body has the nutrients it needs, it's more apt to be satisfied. You can either choose to eat three big meals throughout the day with small snacks in between or you can choose to eat small meals every 2 to 3 hours. Either way, make sure your meals are balanced.
#2. Reach for a Piece of Fruit
If you're still craving sweets, it may be your body's way of telling you you need certain nutrients that you're not getting enough of. Give your body what it wants and reach for a piece of your favorite fruit to satisfy your cravings, while doing something good for your body. There are great fruit options for every season, so do a bit of research to see what's in season in your area and pick some of your favorites to keep on hand.
#3. Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Sugar-free gum can give you the sweet flavor you're craving without the extra calories or sugar. Gum is a flavorful treat with only 5-10 calories per serving and Orbit® sugar-free gum also provides oral care benefits. :)
Gum is an easy (and inexpensive) treat to stock up on. Buy it in a multipack and keep it wherever you need it to keep cravings at bay all day.
My biggest sweet cravings come late at night. After a long day, my favorite way to unwind and get ready for bed is to watch a new movie or catch up on my favorite TV shows. Then the cravings start. I keep a pack near me so that when it hits, I can satisfy it!
If you find yourself rifling through the kitchen cabinets for a sweet treat, keep your gum highly visible so you don't get as far as the fridge. :)
Filling a pretty container with sugar-free gum to keep on your kitchen counter is a great reminder.
Chewing Orbit® Gum can help keep your wellness goals on track by minimizing mindless snacking throughout the day!
Orbit® sugar-free gum is available in a ton of delicious flavors including Spearmint, Peppermint, Wintermint, Bubblemint, Strawberry, Citrus, Sweet Mint and Orbit White, so no matter what you're in the mood for, there's a gum for that! Check out all of the Orbit® Gum options and pick out your own sweet solutions.
When your mouth feels clean and fresh from Orbit® gum, you feel more confident and ready to make the most of your moment!
#4. Allow Yourself Occasional Treats
It's okay to have sweets every now and then and depriving yourself completely can make you want them even more. Also, when you know that you're going to have a small treat later, you'll be better able to push those cravings to the side for now. Treating yourself isn't a loss and with a healthy diet and regular exercise, it's perfectly fine to have that piece of cake or a few cookies on occasion. :)
#5. Stay Busy
One of the biggest reasons for mindless snacking is boredom. If you find that you're bored in the afternoons or evenings, find something to do. It should be something that keeps your hands and mind busy. It might be working on a craft, doing a word search, or even coloring in an adult coloring book. Have fun, relax, and forget everything else. It will be good for both your body and your mind.
If you find yourself still craving sweets, try to fit in a quick workout. Whether you run, do yoga, ride bikes, or lift weights, you can often keep those cravings away by giving your body something else to do for a little while.
A craving for sweets can hit you out of nowhere. However, you can be prepared; Keep fruit on hand, stock up on Orbit® sugar-free gum and mindful activities or crafts, and plan out some quick workouts. Most importantly, eat right and allow yourself a treat in moderation. If you feel you've gotten sidetracked and you're tempted to give up, remember that it's not the end of the world and it's never too late to pick it back up!
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How are you doing with your resolutions so far? What are your biggest cravings? I love to read your comments!
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
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