We find ourselves in a strange new world where our normal lives have been turned upside down. Having the whole family at home this week I have already noticed how the change in routine is changing our eating habits. I hear the creak of the cupboard as someone else is reaching for a snack again!!
So here are my 5 top tips to reduce snacking and grazing while at home:
- Have a good breakfast, ideally savoury
Starting on the right foot is so important as it will set your metabolism up for the day. Having a balanced whole food, low GI breakfast with slow release carbs, healthy fats and protein will ensure you are sustained until lunch and your blood sugars will not be on a roller-coaster for the rest of the day which is often the reason for cravings and snacking. Ideally start the day with a savoury breakfast as this may also reduce cravings later in the day.
- Don’t store high sugar processed snacks
If you do have them in the house put them somewhere out of reach in a different room or cupboard where they are not easily visible or accessible. We are inherently lazy and will always go for the easy option. Out of sight out of mind, out of reach out of belly!
- Prepare healthy snacks in advance
Have a supply of healthy snacks ready to go, ideally these should be savoury but definitely low in sugar and refined carbs, rich in protein and healthy fats to slow the metabolism of any sugars helping balance the blood sugars.
- Plan your meals and schedule eating times.
Planning your meals is going to be so important during this period, especially if shopping and deliveries become difficult. Doing an audit of the cupboards, freezer and fridge and working out what you are going to eat when will ensure food is not wasted. You may also be surprised at how the brain complies if it knows it is going to have food at say 8am, 12 noon, 3pm and 7pm.
- Keep busy and active and ask yourself a question!
Normal routine is out of the window, we need to create new routines to keep ourselves productive and active. Scheduling your day (and your kids) is going to help our minds cope with our new reality for however long it lasts. When we are occupied and have something to focus on we quickly forget about our stomachs but if the cravings do come, STOP; have a glass of water and ask yourself ‘Am I actually hungry???’, wait 20 mins as you may just be thirsty or bored.
I hope some of these ideas help!
Stay Well, Stay Active, Stay in Touch
Keep Calm and Carry on Cooking!
