13 Tips To Make Snacking Healthier Right Now

Pause When An Intense Craving Hits

When hit by an intense craving, pause and ask if it is hunger that is coming up or something else. If really hunger, it is good to eat, but first consider whether it is hunger causing the intense craving or some emotion that causes desire for food. Common emotions that may create feelings of false hunger include fatigue, anxiety, loneliness, stress, etc. Certain foods, particularly sugary and fatty ones, release opioids in the brain causing a calming and soothing effect, which can be addictive. People also experience intense cravings and eat when not hungry as a distraction to avoid difficult feelings. If it is some emotion causing the intense craving and not hunger, begin practicing identifying the habit of emotional eating and learn how to stop the cycle.