How To Stop Snacking All The Time In Lockdown
COVID and lockdown have made us confined to our homes. It’s not even surprising finding yourself taking random trips to the fridge/cupboard in search of snacks. Wait, are you even munching right now? No matter how much you love snacks, keep in mind that they are a source of anti-nutrients and extra calories. They might offer us comfort, distraction, and relief from boredom, but this can lead to weight gain, feeling guilty and then the feeling pretty bad about yourself.
In this article, you will find some tips on how to stop snacking all the time in lockdown and improve your health at the same time. Keep reading!
1. Increase Your Water Intake
Drinking more water is not a difficult task. It can keep your tummy full, help you stay hydrated, and keep your energy levels up. Next time when you reach for a bowl of snacks, reach for a glass of water instead. Remember to go with the “thirst-first” technique, according to which, you may just need a glass of water when you are feeling hungry because our bodies often get confused between the feeling of hunger or dehydrated. Put up a wallpaper, set a reminder, or stick some notes on your work desk which remind you to drink at least 1.5L or 6-8 glasses of water every day.
2. Take the Control in Your Hands
It’s time to cut back on unnecessary calories in snacks and take back control. Firstly, don’t buy unhealthy snacks, and if you end up buying, then put them in an inconvenient place so, you have to think twice before you get your hands on it. What’s more, you can unleash your creative side by cutting out or drawing a picture of healthy food, like apple or pepper, and stick it on the front of the snack cupboard/tin. This works as a reminder for you and your family to eat healthier.
3. Healthy Alternatives
Look for healthy snacking alternatives or eat a heavy meal so that you don’t feel hungry during meals. Vegetables and salads are super-low in calories, high in fibre, and full of vitamins and minerals. They help fill you up for a longer time. Whenever you crave snacks, look for other healthy alternatives like brightly chopped, peppers, carrot, cucumber, celery, apple, etc., and place these at the front of the fridge so, they are the first thing you see. Vegetables and fruits are great sources of fibre, which are delicious, filling, low calorie and fantastic for your gut health and energy levels. Buy some enticing coloured fruits, vegetables and salads, and make them interesting with spices, herbs, lemon etc.
Stay Healthy but Don’t Be Hard on Yourself
Remember that every meal has the opportunity to support health and wellness if you choose wisely, but sometimes, we all let go a little of our restraint. Don’t be harsh on yourself, but remember your what you eat and drink has a major effect on your health. So, if you do go overboard on the snacks for 1 day, you can regain control the very next day by drinking more water and making healthy choices easily accessible that your body and mind will thank you for.
