Published August 16, 2012

The Hack That Controls Cravings

by Helen M. Ryan
woman eating chocolate

Five minutes can feel like an ETERNITY when you’re dying to eat that box of cookies or plate of nachos. Try to wait it out. (What? No!)

When you’re tired and busy, this seems pretty impossible to do, right?

So how do you do it? I’ve got a hack for ya’. Never deny yourself any foods. (That’s more like it.)

Denying yourself will just make you want whatever it is more. Instead, tell yourself, “Yeah, baby, you can have the food or drink, just not right at this moment.” Convince yourself that if you still want it tonight (or tomorrow) then by all means, go for it. But then, not now.

There’s a good chance that once the initial craving (or fatigue wave or stressful episode) has passed, you’ll no longer want to indulge. If that doesn’t work, give yourself half of what you wanted, then go use some strong mouthwash or brush your teeth to get rid of the taste. (That’s my my superpower: Brushing my teeth a lot.)

Do good things come to those who wait? Yeah, I think so. Like getting healthier and having better-fitting pants.

If you give in to your craving and fall off the wagon, it’s OK. Just don’t keep eating. Remember the good, forget the bad, and move on.

Don’t let this one lack of good judgment color the rest of your day or week. We all do it on occasion.