But Are You Really Hungry? Tips to Reduce Mindless Snacking

Grabbing a tasty snack is especially tempting to me when I'm bored or feeling a little down.  Sometimes this can lead to eating too much and when I am not even hungry!  Snacks can have their place in a healthy diet, it's problematic when you have already eaten, are not listening to your body and eating when you aren't really hungry.  I won't go into the many psychological factors that could be at play here (if you feel you have an issue that controls your eating habits, please find someone who you can speak with to help).  However, many of us sometimes simply eat without thinking and not because our bodies need fuel.  

Anyone else ever sat down in front of the tv with a bag of popcorn and next thing you know it is all gone and you don't remember eating it?  Or said you were just going to have one cookie but the next thing you know half the package is gone?  Next time you reach for that popcorn, or whatever snack it is, ask yourself if you are really hungry.  How long has it been since you last ate?  Is your stomach growling?  If it has been hours since you ate and your stomach is asking for food, then eat and enjoy.  Don't rush, savor and really taste each bite.  If you have eaten in the last 3-4 hours and you find you really are bored or sad or eating out of habit (but I always have a snack in the evening!), take a look at the image above and try one of the 8 things to keep your mind or hands occupied to prevent you from snacking.  Let me know if you have any tips that work for you!