To Munch or Not to Munch

Many of us get munchy throughout our day. Sometimes its mid afternoon, evening or just all day long. Here are some things to try to keep from munching.

1- Always start by reaching for water. Keeping hydrated helps beat some of those hunger pangs.

2-Instead of lunch eat three smaller meals throughout the afternoon

3-Pay attention to your food, the choices you are making as well as while you are eating it.

4- Keep busy, if you are busy doing things then you won't be snacking.

5- Stay out of the Kitchen, but if that doesn't work make sure you have quick healthy snacks ready to go and reach for them instead of that candy bar sitting in your cupboard.

For those of us who munch at night, this is usually due to boredom and habit. So we need to change those habits. Don't just sit and watch TV and snack. Try other things. Try taking a walk after dinner, not only does this get you some exercise, but it helps digestion and it gets you outside. If you are going to sit and watch a show keep your hands busy with other things like puzzles, hand work, writing, drawing, etc. Or you can do something totally different like read a book, learn and or practice an instrument, draw a picture, play a game,.... There are so many things we can do to occupy our time instead of eating. Change isn't easy and sometimes it will take all our will power to say no to that snack but we should also have healthy alternatives if we really just need something. Remember water is always an option.