Food cravings can be so powerful that it is sometimes quite challenging to resist. Some people crave for salty foods and some, crave for sweets. For me, I’d often crave for sugary food when I’m having my PMS, when I’m bored, or when I’m really, really stressed out. It’s like every time I’m craving for something, there’s a tiny voice in my head telling me “I need to have this now”.

But sometimes I wonder, how come I don’t crave for healthy food like apples? Obviously, I know that giving in to my food temptations is unhealthy and yet, I can’t help it. So, I’ve done my research on how to overcome my food cravings, tried it out, and so far, I believe I’ve overcome it. Here’s how I dealt with my cravings.

Tip #1 – Delay

It takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes for your cravings to disappear, so try to delay in giving in to your cravings. If you feel that after 15 minutes, you are still yearning for a bite of that wonderful chocolate, don’t. Give yourself another 15 minutes. At the same time, instead of just sitting around and thinking about it, have a glass of water, or better yet, eat some fruits.

Tip #2 – Escape

If you know that you are constantly craving for a particular food, then make sure that you keep it out of reach. If it’s in your kitchen cabinet, or in your office pantry, then throw it out or avoid buying it. You are less likely to be tempted if you don’t have any of your food cravings near you.

Tip #3 – Avoid

Avoiding triggers that create your cravings can be difficult. For instance, you crave for donuts when you are stressed out and on your way home from work, you would probably drive pass J.Co or Krispy Kreme. Without a doubt, you’ll definitely grab yourself a box of donuts, head home, and enjoy it to your to heart’s content. Does this situation seem too familiar to you? Well, it takes a lot of time and will power to overcome the urge to avoid eating a donut when you are stressed. Best thing you could do as a start is just to avoid driving pass that donut store because the more you avoid the trigger of your cravings, the less likely you may want them.
Indulging in food cravings every now and then is normal.

You can definitely enjoy these things in moderation. If you manage to resist the cravings, it will eventually disappear. As a matter of fact, the first step is to recognize your desires for certain food and exert self-control, then you are on your way to overcoming it.

Best Wishes,
Jessy Lai Chai Yun (赖彩云)