13 Tips To Make Snacking Healthier Right Now

Understand That Drinking Water Does Not Get Rid Of Hunger

There is a popular myth that drinking water helps eliminate hunger. The truth is that drinking water and staying well-hydrated is, of course, essential for good health, but drinking water does not do anything to eliminate real hunger. Sometimes when thirsty, the body may send the same cues it sends when hungry and in this case, drinking water will eliminate those false hunger cues. If hungry, drinking any amount of water will not get rid of hunger as the body craves nutrition in the form of macronutrients, minerals, and vitamins, many of which water cannot provide. Though drinking water may offer a temporary feeling of fullness in the stomach, the body still requires nutrients from food and recognizes when it is not receiving it.

Pause When An Intense Craving Hits

When hit by an intense craving, pause and ask if it is hunger that is coming up or something else. If really hunger, it is good to eat, but first consider whether it is hunger causing the intense craving or some emotion that causes desire for food. Common emotions that may create feelings of false hunger include fatigue, anxiety, loneliness, stress, etc. Certain foods, particularly sugary and fatty ones, release opioids in the brain causing a calming and soothing effect, which can be addictive. People also experience intense cravings and eat when not hungry as a distraction to avoid difficult feelings. If it is some emotion causing the intense craving and not hunger, begin practicing identifying the habit of emotional eating and learn how to stop the cycle.