Trying to stay healthy while in college can be extremely hard, especially when there’s temptation around every corner in the form of cookies, cakes, brownies, and more…
It’s incredibly easy to say “screw it” to your healthy eating and dive into an abyss of unhealthy choices, but I’m here to give you tips on how to say no to those unwanted and unneeded craving:
Tip 1: Drink More Water
Thirst is often confused with hunger or food cravings. If you feel an urge for a specific food, try drinking a large glass of water and wait a few minutes. You may find that the craving fades away because your body was actually just thirsty.
Tip 2: Incorporate More Protein
I’ve recently discovered that by upping my protein intake, it’s reduced my appetite and stopped me from overeating. Protein also reduces cravings and makes you feel full longer.
Tip 3: Distance Yourself from the Craving
Sometimes, when I’m done eating my fulfilling sandwich and salad from Blackburn, I’m forced to face the dessert section as I walk out and the temptation to grab two or ten cookies arises. However, by walking quickly and grabbing an apple instead, I feel better about myself.
Tip 4: Eat Proper Meals
As a college student, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with homework, exams, internships, extracurriculars, and your social life. Food isn’t always at the top of your priorities and instead of going to the cafeteria, you grab cup noodles from the C-Store, a Pepsi, and a pack of cookies and call it a meal. Well… it’s not a meal. Please make sure you’re able to schedule in at least thirty minutes into your schedule so you can grab yourself a proper meal, so your body doesn’t hate you later.
These few tips might just help you say no to those cravings, and you’ll be thankful later!