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Step 1
Cravings are understandable. Humans are moody, and we have so much wonderful variety when it comes to food. You can learn how to separate cravings from real hunger. Ask yourself, "Is my stomach growling, does it really feel empty? Or am I simply wanting something sweat/salt/crunchy, etc?" If you're simply wanting to satisfy a craving, eat just enough to satisfy, but not a meal. Some people will drink water beforehand, to help distinguish a feeling of hunger before eating something.
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Step 2
If you are hungry, eat a healthy meal, and add a slice of something you were craving before for the very end. You'll become full after you eat, so you'll want less of the food afterward, but you aren't depraving yourself. You can also find ways of incorporating the item into the meal, so you've got both hunger and cravings controlled.
For example, when you first thought of something to eat, did you think of chocolate? Try eating a healthy salad, with a glass of chocolate milk. A bowl of cereal can also fill you up, and many cereals have chocolate pieces, and are also healthy. -
Step 3
When thirsty, drink water. When you want a taste of soda, drink water first to quench your thirst, and then drink soda. Do this whenever you are craving something to drink. Don't drink sodas and other sweet drinks when thirsty, only to satisfy the craving. You'll drink up less calories.
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Step 4
Discover lower caloric alternatives to foods you already love. Instead of getting rid of potato chips altogether, find something that give you that potato chip flavor and taste without having to eat the high caloric chips. Tortilla chips are both salty and crunchy and healthier.
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Step 5
When you are craving something specific, buy just a taste, not the entire package. For example, when you crave cookies, buy one small cookie from the front counter or at the deli, not a package. It might be more costly not to buy in bulk, but you can't eat what you don't have. It curbs the craving, and sets the limit.
