When you think about food cravings, typically the first thing that comes to mind would be some type of junk food. Something that is high in calories, low in nutrients, processed and quite unhealthy. Is that what you tend to crave when a craving kicks in? What is your go-to craving — chocolate chip cookies? A big bowl of ice cream?
What’s my go-to-craving? Any cake or cookie that is sitting on my counter. My daughter makes the best homemade butter pound cake, so when she brings one over and it’s just sitting there, begging for attention, I cave and give it all the attention I can. Yet, I find it is not just the delicious pound cake, it can be homemade cookies or brownies. My cravings tend to attack when I’m bored and I can just sit there and mindlessly eat.
I’ll be honest with you — I believe in a balanced life. I’m not saying to never enjoy a sweet treat again — not at all. The issue with ingesting processed foods and the chemicals that come along with them on an ongoing basis is the danger of addiction. We absolutely don’t want that, as it can disrupt the way our bodies function and wreak havoc in more ways than you can imagine.
So, if you feel like you may be addicted to sugar and/or processed foods, there is something you can do to help. There are many foods you can add into your diet to balance your microbiome and get your good bacteria back to a healthy place. These foods are generally fermented foods that are filled with the good bacteria that your body needs to balance itself again and rid you of those cravings.
These fermented foods can include kimchi, kombucha, sauerkraut, kefir, and raw goat’s milk soft cheese to name a few. I’d love for you to choose at least one of these to add into your diet this week and get that good bacteria back into your body. Taking a probiotic on a daily basis will help balance your bacteria as well – make sure your probiotic is a “live organic” supplement.
Food Swaps for Popular Cravings…
Another of my favorite ways to combat cravings is to trade out unhealthy foods with beneficial ones.
If you’re craving potato chips… Try some raw carrot or celery sticks instead for that crunch.
If you’re craving soda… Try some sparkling water such as La Croix. There are so many flavors to choose from; you’re bound to find one you love — and you can finally ditch that soda!
If you’re craving a milkshake… Try a green smoothie instead to quench your desire for something cold and sweet.
Another helpful tip that I implement is to indulge mindfully. I no longer buy processed foods, therefore, I no longer have store bought cookies and cakes in the house. I’ve learned to be mindful about my cravings and when an attack happens I drink a glass of water to see if that will satisfy my craving attack. Often it does, which means I was thirsty. If I still have a craving, I will eat a few nuts to satisfy my craving.
Whether your craving is for something salty or sweet, enjoy a smaller portion than you’d even like to have. Teaching yourself restraint and how to indulge mindfully is an incredibly useful tool that you will carry with you always. Ditch your sugar cravings today, download your “Sugar Cravings” guide to get started.
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