Snacking is a pitfall for many, and learning how to not eat in the evening when dieting is one of the hardest. But it can be done!
Evening and late night snacking is a habit. We don’t tend to eat at these times because we’re hungry, but for other reasons.
For example, snacking while watching TV to unwind is a popular trend, and we do it almost unconsciously. How many times have you reached for more popcorn and realized the bowl is empty!
Here are a few tips for how to not eat in the evening when dieting:
-Make sure you eat enough during the day.
-Eat small meals spread out at regular intervals.
-Follow this by eating a satisfying dinner.
-Prepare foods that satisfy helps diminish the desire to eat later in the day.
If you struggle with a sweetooth, allow yourself a low calorie dessert after dinner. In the summer, I enjoy a fudgesicle for 90 calories. It’s cold, refreshing and chocolate. Quite a difference from ½ cup serving of Ben and Jerry’s original chocolate at 260 calories! And who only eats ½ cup? Check low calorie options in the freezer section!
When the urge to snack in the evening hits, get up and set the timer for 10 minutes and have a glass of water or herbal tea while you wait. Often the urge disappears.
While you wait ask yourself these questions:
-Is five minutes of snacking worth adding 200-500 more calories to your day?
-Is blowing your diet now worth it after all your hard work?
Are you really hungry? Stop and listen to your stomach. Could it be you are bored or upset?Are TV food commercials triggering desires to eat? (If so don’t watch them!)
If you stick with your goal, you’ll reap the reward of feeling good about yourself, along with the benefit of gradual weight loss. You can do it! One day…or evening at a time.
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