Cravings undermine every weigh loss effort. How can you fight them?

Drink a glass of water. In most cases we mistake thirst for hunger. Water can suppress the signals that your brain is likely to misinterpret.

Use acupuncture. Gently massage the point between your upper lip and your nose for up to three minutes. You will be surprised, but the unwelcome hunger will take a back seat.

Do some breathing exercises. This will facilitate the breakdown of proteins in your body, replenishing the needed energy. Just twenty deep breaths can rid you of the desire to have a donut! Just make sure the air is fresh.

Get plenty of sleep. We are prone to compensate for our lack of sleep by overeating. This happens due to hormonal disbalance: the lack of sleep increases the secretion of ghrelin, while the secretion of leptin (the hormone responsible for feeling full) goes down. Ever heard of beauty sleep? If you equate beauty with having a slimmer body this just might make sense. A cup of skim milk with honey before going to bed can help balance your body’s metabolism and prevent you from waking up hungry.

Use aromatherapy (an oil diffuser, for instance). The smells of citrus fruit, pine trees and coffee can help fight the unwarranted hunger sensation.

Fasten your belt!  Wearing tight clothing while eating will help you realize that you may have already had enough even though you still feel hungry. It also takes some time for your body to start digesting and stop sending hunger signals to your brain.

Stay busy. Unhealthy eating is often a psychological issue. We are often prone to having snacks when bored or stressed. Go for a long walk or find a hobby other than cooking and baking.