Fresh Snacks Can Help You Avert Boredom Eating

Many people find it difficult to control their appetite, especially with today’s ever increasing portion sizes and fast paced lifestyle. Where an occasional snack will not cause much harm, consistently eating out of boredom can lead to negative outcomes. If you are feeling bored, opt for a quick walk to help you avoid eating for the sake of it.

Finding suitable distractions can stimulate the brain and help to prevent boredom and cravings for excess food when you are really not hungry. To minimize the harmful effects of eating due to boredom, avoid snacking on baked goods, sweet treats, and sugary drinks. Your body digests these foods quickly and signal your brain that you are hungry again.

Light exercise has a positive effect on leptin release…

On occasion, snacking for reasons other than hunger is just fine, as long as you maintain control of your daily energy intake and make healthy food choices. However, you will be less likely to overeat if you exercise, which impacts appetite hormone production and release.:

• Fresh Veggie Snacks – Seaweed snacks or toasted kale are perfect snack options for when you are craving a crispy crunch. Very low-calorie food options can allow you to have larger portions but always be conscious to not overeat.
• Plain Popcorn Snacks – If you have problems with portion control when snacking, whip up your own low-calorie snack bags. Popcorn is rich in antioxidants and delivers a healthy dose of fiber to aid digestion.
• Eat Mindfully – Practicing mindful eating encourages you to slow down and focus on the present. Noticing what you are truly feeling will help you avoid overeating or binge eating.
• Healthy Fruit Snacks – Since fresh fruit should be part of a healthy menu plan, it is a good choice for keeping you full between meals and the natural sugar makes it a satisfying substitute for sweet cravings.

Protein is an ideal snack to reduce food cravings…

Some people who overeat have a clinical disorder called binge eating disorder where they compulsively eat large amounts of food in a short time and feel guilty afterward. Stressors pile up during the day and before you know it you are craving a snack or treat.

At that time, try drinking a glass of water or take a short walk followed by a cup of your favorite tea.

Boredom eating is often triggered by sudden food cravings and on occasion can be completely normal and nothing to worry about. However, it may become frustrating when you engage in mindless eating every day, which can lead to negative health outcomes.

MRC’s protein drinks are a healthy low-carb, low calorie flavored beverages lightly sweetened with natural Stevia extract. They help relieve hunger and are ideal for people who want to lose weight.