What to do when you’re craving comfort foods

We all get cravings. It’s a normal part of our hunger cues as humans. However, you might find that you are getting constant cravings for certain types of foods, such as sugary treats or high-fat snacks.

A lot of the time, cravings for comfort foods increase during winter when the weather is cold and dark. Warming snacks and desserts can make us feel comforted and cozy when the weather is anything but enjoyable.

Luckily, there are things that you can do to tackle winter cravings. Here are some of the best things to try next time you’re getting strong cravings for comfort foods.

Keep a food diary

Often, tracking your food intake can help you to recognize when your cravings are at their strongest and identify potential triggers. You can either use a paper journal or a tracking app to monitor your overall food consumption.

Stay hydrated

When you’re getting strong cravings, it’s sometimes just a sign that you need to drink more water. Thirst is easily mistaken for hunger.

Keep a filled water bottle by your side so you can sip on it throughout the day and keep yourself well-hydrated. This will not only reduce your cravings but will also improve your concentration.

Bake healthy alternatives

Comfort foods are usually full of calories, sugar, and fats. Baking healthier alternatives to your favorite comfort snacks and desserts will reduce the negative impacts of your cravings. You’ll consume fewer calories and fats even if you decide to grab a snack or indulge in a sweet treat when you have healthier options in your kitchen.

Consume less alcohol

Alcohol might not be food but it's certainly something that a lot of people crave, especially around the festive period. However, alcohol contains empty calories that don't provide your body with any nutrition.

Plus, drinking your calories often doesn't feel as satisfying as eating them, so you could find that your cravings actually get worse when you drink.

Find comfort in something other than food

Cravings for comfort foods might be a projection of a need for something else. Instead of reaching for food when you're feeling anxious, stressed, or low in mood, reach out to a loved one, do a workout, or listen to upbeat music to take your mind off things.