Ways to get my mind off of food

[bigbobby]

When I don't actually need to eat, but I'm craving food or feeling hungry, what are some ways that i can get my mind off of food so I don't give into consuming more than I need to?

[tobetinytina]

Read a good book, go for a walk in an interesting place with a lot of cool visuals, call up a friend and talk. Go some place where no food or drink is allowed...essentially, it's all about distracting your mind or being in a place or situation where eating or drinking is inappropriate.

[legendarytroy]

Slowly drink a glass of water. That often helps me. I also chew gum. I know that some people don't recommend that, but it works for me.

[Gina]

I find that eating raw vegetables help, things like carrots, celery or cucumbers. They pack a lot of crunch, which I really like but they're also very low in calories, so they can help with the hunger and you don't have to worry about blowing your calories.

[anne]

Slowly drink a glass of water. That often helps me. I also chew gum. I know that some people don't recommend that, but it works for me.

I also chew gum (sugar-free). I know people say this is bad for gas and for your teeth, but honestly, it really helps me sometimes. I would recommend experimenting and find out what works for you.

[Ron]

I also chew gum (sugar-free). I know people say this is bad for gas and for your teeth, but honestly, it really helps me sometimes. I would recommend experimenting and find out what works for you.

I chew gum, too. I find the oral fixation really helps. Sugar-free is important for both your teeth and your appetite. I would recommend sucking on a candy, but that's likely only going to make you want more sweets/food, too. The best thing is to really just distract yourself and if you really need something with crunch, then opt for plain popcorn, celery or cucumber. I've even find eating or sucking on ice chips works too.

[kellykatt]

Do something active. I think the worse thing that you can do is sit still and watch TV or read, etc. Unless what you're looking at or reading is so incredible that you can't think of anything other than being wrapped up in the story, there's no way you're going to not think about food. If you head out to exercise, at least you're getting some activity in. While you might still think about food, there won't be any food around you and maybe....just maybe...on your walk you can think about a healthy snack you might be able to eat when you get home.

[bigbobby]

I chew gum, too. I find the oral fixation really helps. Sugar-free is important for both your teeth and your appetite. I would recommend sucking on a candy, but that's likely only going to make you want more sweets/food, too. The best thing is to really just distract yourself and if you really need something with crunch, then opt for plain popcorn, celery or cucumber. I've even find eating or sucking on ice chips works too.

Thanks for all the advice. I do try to be active when possible, that does help. That said, I will give your snack suggestions a try KellyKatt. Something low-cal and crunchy will likely help...even the ice chips thing. I do think an oral fixation is what I need haha. I would chew gum, but my wife hates it when I chew gum and it does often give me gas.

[chefmel]

Hello bigbobby, I am Daniel Patrik. I read your problem but this problem is normal. Not very big issue. If you are loved food. so, don't worry, you would eat food slowly and little - little food eat . These process good for you. because you would not eat more then your diet.

That's really great advice! I think I might follow some of these myself. :)