Am I Hungry or Just Bored?

Do you ever find yourself foraging in the pantry in the afternoon or evening? You’re not really hungry, but think, “I want something to eat,” or “What sounds yummy?” You look and look, finally settling on a not-so-healthy option. Whether it is for weight loss or good health, reaching your goals is about the day-to-day decisions. One step at a time. One decision at a time. So, the next time you find yourself walking to the kitchen, ask yourself these three pivotal questions…

1. “Am I really hungry?” If not, step away from the pantry, refrigerator and snack drawer! If you aren’t sure, grab a glass of water first! Thirst is often confused as hunger (I’ll spare you the neuroscience behind this.). If the water helped or you aren’t truly hungry, find something else to do!! Organize photos, write thank-you notes, phone a friend, just get busy and distracted!

2. If you are hungry, consider the nutrition of the food. Look for healthy choices. Once you’ve chosen something to eat, ask, “What am I going to eat?” And, not the obvious answer of a candy bar, potato chips, ice cream or the like. Read the ingredient list and nutrition facts. High fructose corn syrup? Hydrogenated oils? 10 grams of fat? 300 calories? 30 grams of sugar? How will this choice affect your caloric intake for the day, impact your weight loss goals and affect your level of hunger? Most sugary, fatty foods don’t satisfy our true hunger, so we’re back in the kitchen foraging again just moments later, and our 300 calorie candy bar results in a caloric binge. Look for foods high in fiber, low on the glycemic index (which don’t spike your blood sugar) and low in fat.

3. Finally, ask yourself, “Can I make a better choice?” Go for a piece of fruit. Maybe a small bowl of healthful, fiber-filled cereal. Think of foods that are going to benefit your body, make you feel good and not sabotage your fitness goals.Take the time to make the decision for you! In this season of many temptations, say no to the leftover fudge, cookies, cheese ball and caramel corn. In so doing, you’ll feel better, boost your confidence and reach your goals sooner! And, your health is the greatest gift you can give yourself, your partner and your children this season!

Written by featured StrollerFit blogger: Rachel Dossman