SIX: Learn to let the thoughts pass. Some thoughts about food are only temporary. If you notice these thoughts arise but know that you aren’t really hungry, try distracting your mind with thoughts about other things besides food. Try these distractions:
Take a break from what you’re doing
Stand up and stretch
Meditate for a few minutes, or maybe use your Chillpod
Go for a walk
Drink a glass of water
Read something that interests you
Work on your favourite craft or hobby
Write down how you’re feeling
SEVEN: Consider mindful eating. This is about being aware of the full mind and body experience you have while eating. Being mindful has many benefits for your health, including learning to respond positively to environmental cues that trigger thoughts about food. Mindful eating is about eating slowly, removing all distractions like the TV or your phone, paying attention to the colours, scents, textures and flavours of food, staying aware of your body’s hunger and fullness cues throughout the meal.
EIGHT: Move more. Doing some exercise can influence how your brain responds to food. Two studies found that the brain’s reward centre is stimulated less by high calorie foods following exercise.