The foods we eat are a major part of our overall health and diet. However, many people have bad habits that make it hard to eat healthy. Changing these behaviors can be a difficult task, but it is possible to break some of the most common bad eating habits.
Snacking Round the Clock
Many people snack at all times of the day, especially on high-calorie junk foods like chips and soda. This habit can lead to overeating later on in the day and weight gain.
Emotional Eating
Some people eat when they are bored or sad, which can cause overeating. Emotional eaters need to find other ways of dealing with stress or boredom rather than turning to food.
Skipping Meals
Not eating enough throughout the day can lead to overeating and poor nutrition. This can also tank energy levels and cause cravings for unhealthy foods later in the day. The Fix: Try to eat regular meals and snacks throughout the day and stick with them. If you are hungry, eat a serving of a healthy, filling food, such as a fruit, vegetable or low-fat dairy product.
Over-Eating
Over-eating is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including emotional problems and not paying attention to the hunger signals in the body. The Fix: Practice mindful eating and try to stop eating when you feel full.
Binge Eating
Binge eating is the practice of eating large amounts in a short period of time, which can lead to weight gain and nutrient deficiencies. The Fix: If you have a tendency to binge eat, don’t go to buffets or parties where there is free food. Instead, prepare a healthy meal at home so you won’t be tempted to overeat.
Hungry All the Time
This type of eater doesn’t pay attention to the amount they are eating and tends to eat quickly. It’s important to eat slowly so the brain can catch up with the stomach and tell you that you are full. The Fix: Make sure that your meals and snacks are filled with healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low fat dairy products and lean meats.
Developing good eating habits may take some time, but over time they can become natural. Changing your eating habits can help prevent serious health issues like obesity and heart disease. It’s also helpful to surround yourself with supportive people who can offer encouragement when you need it. If you need help breaking bad eating habits, talk to a healthcare professional or counselor. They can help you develop a plan to change your behaviors. It’s also a good idea to keep some healthy food, such as carrots and cucumber slices, yogurt and hummus, in your fridge and at work so you have easy-to-eat healthy snacks.
