How to Kick a Junk Food Habit

Kicking junk food will allow you to lose weight, feel better about yourself, sleep better and have more energy. As with any addiction, there are multiple ways to try to quit.

Instructions

1. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day so that you don't confuse hunger with thirst. People sometimes reach for snacks thinking they are hungry, when their body is actually craving liquids. Water also speeds up the breaking down of carbs, which decreases sugar cravings.

2. Eat regular, healthy meals throughout the day, without skipping, even if you're not hungry. Your body will cling to every fat calorie it has if it feels food is getting low. Eating a small amount before you are actually hungry will prevent overeating junk food and other food if you wait until you feel the cravings.

3. Substitute healthier foods for the junk food you think you crave. Try baked chips or peanuts when you want something salty. Buy fat-free ice milk instead of ice cream.

4. Allow yourself junk food one day per week. This helps you get through the other days of the week easier. It also shows you over time how much better you feel when you kick the junk food habit.

5. Exercise regularly to work off the small amount of junk food you do allow yourself while you are in the process of kicking your habit.

6. Keep alternatives visible. Fruits in a bowl on the counter, below the cabinet you used to store junk food in, will help you combat the addiction.

7. Treat yourself to a prize occasionally to reward your good behavior. Use DVDs, clothes and other non-food items as awards.