It is a challenge to know whether or not you are hungry. There are many factors that are involved both chemically and physically.

Let’s look at hunger.

Hunger signals your body that you are insufficient in nutrients and energy. Sometimes it comes in the form of a rumbling tummy or at other times the tick-tock of the clock.

But the key is understanding and knowing whether or not you really are hungry.

When you have this feeling of hunger, it comes from the drop in your blood sugar signaling to your brain to release the hormone, Ghrelin.

Once your body has the message that you’re hungry and food begins to fill your stomach, Ghrelin slows down and the peptide YY is released. This helps to signal satiation.

You are fueled up and full.

However, it’s those pesky little cravings that can mess up everything. These cravings can be encouraged and brought on by commercials, boredom, smells, stress, sadness, and even the late-night sweet tooth.

All of a sudden, you find yourself in the pantry grabbing for the closest salty, savory, or sweet thing to reduce the urge.

Some people though have a hard time trying to figure out whether it’s a craving or if they’re really hungry.

It’s all in your head.

One way to figure this out is to ask yourself if a nutritious food would satisfy you. If you really don’t want the good stuff, then most likely it’s the pesky craving.

Your mind is wanting to fill a void with food instead of dealing with whatever it is. Your cravings get in the way so you can bury what you don’t want.

So how can you escape the cravings?

Outsmart your cravings!

The K.I.S.S. ~ Outsmart your cravings!

Once you begin to recognize and realize the differences between hunger and cravings, you can then focus on your health and wellness goals with less of a distraction.

So let’s outsmart your cravings.

1. Space out your meals and snacks. This will help you to avoid feeling starved. When your body receives the correct nutrients and allows it to nourish your body, it helps to regulate your blood sugar levels and keep your hunger hormones in check. Be cautious when skipping meals or snacks, because it can later lead to cravings.
2. Load up on protein and fiber. This will help you feel satiated longer. With any meal or snack, if at all possible, make sure you have it packed with protein and fiber. It does the body and mind good keeping you satisfied for a longer period of time.
3. Practice mindfulness. Be present and aware of what you are eating, when you are eating, and why you are eating. If you have problems with the what, when, and why you’re eating, definitely take a moment and intentionally ask yourself, “Why food now?”.

You can change the way you see your food. But it’s going to take effort both chemically, physically, and mentally.

You can outsmart your cravings and enjoy the food God intended for nourishment of your mind, body, and spirit.

“Train for life. Love your journey!“