IS SNACKING BECOMING A HOBBY?

Learn how to identify the difference between hunger and cravings to stop yourself from unnecessary snacking.

How many times have you walked from your room to the kitchen? Well, I lost count. Being at home surrounded by food without much to do is a tricky situation.

I will go to my kitchen to open the fridge and stare at it waiting for something to happen. Yet, the only thing that happens is that I end up snacking way too much because I’m just bored.

The difficult part about being home is differentiating hunger from boredom. Being bored causes cravings and encourages us to eat foods that we might regret eating.

The good thing about cravings is that it passes with time, as stated by the Mayo Clinic Diet. If you find yourself looking for something to eat even if you just ate, grab your reusable water bottle, drink some water, and get out of the kitchen!

Some tips to distract yourself to stop thinking about cravings is to watch some movies, listen to music, do homework, exercise. Anything that will stop you from thinking about that piece of chocolate that you really want.

A key component to staying fit while being at home is to control your cravings. I know it is hard but if you know how to identify hunger from cravings, it will be easier to eat healthier.

Hunger does not pass with time. It may create a headache, a rumbling stomach, or weakness. So if you haven’t eaten your lunch, or feel any of those symptoms, then go eat some food!

However, do not let it get to the point where you are dying of hunger. If you do so, you may eat more than the portions you should eat and may crave more unhealthy foods.

It is normal to have cravings. I have them all the time and I may give in and eat my piece of chocolate. Sometimes it is good to reward yourself and eat that food you are craving.

Eating healthy does not mean that you can't eat sweets - it's all about balance.

There are many healthy recipes out there that will satisfy that sweet tooth. I have many recipes that I want to share with you all so stay tuned. . .

In the mean time, here are some healthy snacks:

• Skinny Pop popcorn

• Rice cakes with almond/peanut butter

• Non-fat greek yogurt with fruits

• Sugar-free chocolate

• Fruits

If you want to learn more about this topic from a credible source:

Explains the difference between cravings and hunger.