Learning the art of controlling your appetite can help you reach your weight loss goals incredibly faster, and make you mentally stronger. Overeating can seem like a helpless act, but it's not. Experienced nutritionists suffer from it as well. But they have strategies they use to prevent themselves from overindulging. Following are seven tried and true tips.
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1.- Chew your food. Not only is it important to chew your food, but it's equally important to do so slowly because doing so will help you absorb more nutrients. Chewing breaks down large particles into smaller, easily digestible, particles that are more readily absorbed by your intestines. Also note that chewing slowly prolongs your meal. This will indirectly make you consume fewer calories. It takes twenty minutes for your brain to receive the signal of being full.2.- Drink water. Research shows that drinking two glasses of water before eating your meal will lower your caloric intake. Further research has shown that drinking water at least thirty minutes before eating can reduce your intake by up to seventy-five calories per meal. Throughout the day, every time you feel like snacking, drink some water. Many of us confuse thirst with hunger. A hunger pang might just be your body crying for water.3.- Serve small. The best way to avoid overindulging is by keeping your meals small. Serve in smaller plates. Rather than stopping yourself from eating what's already on your plate, it takes much less effort to stop yourself from going for seconds.4.- Detox your kitchen. Eliminate junk food from your kitchen. It's a very effective way to prevent overeating and indulging in foods that are not good for you. Restock your kitchen cabinets, refrigerator and pantry with healthy alternatives. When shopping, stick to the perimeter of the grocery store and avoid wandering between the aisles where the processed foods are placed. This is especially true if you go shopping on an empty stomach. Just don't do that.5.-Eat smart. Nature has provided us with certain foods that are meant to make you fuller faster and longer. Eat whole foods that are high in fiber, protein and healthy fats. These will keep you stay satiated for longer. Proteins take longer to digest, which helps keep your blood sugar levels up. Fiber expands in your stomach and makes you feel fuller way faster.6.- Snack small. Trail mix, nuts or any other snacks you purchase, don't eat the whole package! Divide it into small portions right when you get home. That way while watching your favorite sitcom, you won't be tempted to eat it all.7.- Remember who's boss. The best way to avoid giving into temptations is to walk away, and being aware about the fact that you have the power to walk away. Your mind doesn't control you. Your willpower controls your mind.
Don't forget to share these strategies and tips that will definitely help you avoid overeating and achieve your weight loss goals faster.
Together we can make this world a happier, healthier place!
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