You can’t always rely on willpower alone when it comes to dealing with cravings. Instead, try this technique the next time you feel that pull to eat outside of your scheduled meal plan. When that thought comes into your head to grab something to eat, simply ask yourself, “Is this a craving, or am I actually hungry?” Consider, cravings often come on like a wave, building as it gets closer to us. We can choose to either give into it or let it wash over us. Set a clock, give yourself 10-15 minutes and during that time, find something non-food related to keep you occupied. At the end of the time, evaluate if you are hungry or not and decide what would would be best for you in the moment.
-Matt Lawson, MA, LPC
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