10 Ways You Can Beat Junk Food Cravings

Cravings for junk foods can make you miserable, especially when they seem to come from nowhere. One minute you’re fine and the next you feel like your whole body is begging for an extra large peanut butter cup.

It’s easier when you crave apples or blueberries or green beans because they’re low in calories and good for you. The problem is when you feel like you need something sweet, something salty or something high in fat. Or, worst case scenario, is when you crave all three at one time.

Cravings seem to take on a life of their own. You can fight them, or you can give in to the temptation. Giving in once in awhile, or controlling the cravings by choosing small portions that allow you to stay within your calorie budget are fine. But when cravings turn into binges, you run the risk of gaining unwanted weight or living off foods that just aren’t good for you.

Do you struggle with junk food cravings? Then take a look at our most helpful tips.

1

Deal With Your Trigger Foods

It’s much easier to give in to temptation when the food you crave is within easy reach. So don’t keep unhealthy foods you tend to crave in your kitchen or at your desk at work or wherever you are. This doesn't mean you can’t keep any treats in the house, but select goodies that are easier for you to manage. Don’t stock up on peanut butter cups if you can’t seem to walk by without eating the whole bag.

2

Don't Skip Meals

Loving couple in the kitchen eating breakfast — AleksandarNakic / Getty Images

Having a tummy that’s not growling makes it easier to ward off your cravings, so don't skip your regular meals. Start with a healthy breakfast and follow up with a nutritious lunch and dinner. And it’s okay to include some snacks as long as they’re good for you and your keep your calorie count in line.

3

Is It Craving or Hunger?

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There’s a difference between having the physical feelings of hunger and the mental and emotional feelings of craving something. If you’re hungry and it’s not close to mealtime, you should probably eat something. If you’re not really hungry, then try some crave-busting distraction techniques, coming up next.

4

Drink Water or a Low Cal Beverage

Woman drinking water — Michael Poehlman/Getty Images

Drinking a tall glass of water might serve as a distraction or it might solve your craving without adding any calories. If plain water sounds boring, add a slice or two of lemon, lime or cucumber. Or sip on iced tea (without the added sugar).

5

Go for a Walk

mature couple walking with dog — istockphoto

Here’s another distraction that has health benefits. Stave off your cravings with a little exercise and go outside for a walk. If you can’t or don’t want to go outside, do a few minutes of calisthenics. Besides serving as a distraction, the physical activity might help reduce stress that could be contributing to your cravings. This technique is not recommended for skipping meals.

6

Get Enough Sleep

Woman napping on a sofa — Jose Luis Pelaez Inc/Getty Images

You should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep daily. It's easier to fight cravings when you have adequate sleep. Less sleep can lead to increased cravings for junk food. If you can't get enough sleep during the evening, a nap may be helpful during the day as long as it doesn't disrupt your next night's sleep.

7

Manage Your Stress

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High stress can lead to many problems, including cravings for junk food in large amounts. Consider seeing a therapist to help you manage your stress. If stress leads to junk food and overconsumption of calories, then seeking a registered dietitian nutritionist as well can be helpful.

8

Chew Gum or Hard Candy

Young woman chewing gum — Science Photo Library / Getty Images

A stick of gum or a piece of hard candy doesn’t have many calories, and the flavor might be all that you need to get past your sweet craving. Alternatively, you might try something like MealEnders, which combines deliciously sweet flavors with cool, tingly sensations that can stop many craving in their tracks.

9

Phone a Friend

Attractive overweight woman at home lying on couch, holding smart phone, texting. — GrapeImages / Getty Images

Call or text a friend or family member who can talk you down from your craving. You may also want to have a registered dietitian nutritionist on-board, especially if you're trying to lose weight. It’s always nice to have someone in your corner who can support your efforts to eat healthier. And you can be there for them when they need help with a craving too.

10

Choose the Healthiest Snack Options

Wooden container with blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries — Jon Lovette/Getty Images

There are plenty of healthy foods that can satisfy a craving for something sweet or salty. Fresh berries, a fruit smoothie, peanut butter on a celery stick, or one slice of whole grain toast with almond butter can all conquer cravings and add nutritional value.