by Brian Lamacraft

Created on: January 26, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Food is all around us, from the restaurant down the street, to the vendor on the corner selling fresh popcorn and hot dogs. Treats and snacks are in the office just waiting to be consumed. In a culture full of food and food advertising it can be difficult not to overeat. There are some methods we can use to curb these cravings and gain control over our eating habits.

Eat Breakfast

Breakfast is a very important and often overlooked meal by many people. We are in too much of a rush to sit down and eat. Later in the morning snacking occurs and usually on the least healthy alternatives. When we eat in the morning we fuel our bodies with the energy it needs to get us through the first half of the day. A healthy breakfast that leaves a person full, helps curb the urge to snack later on in the morning.

Take Healthy Snacks With You

Taking fruit, seeds, nuts or even an energy bar to work can provide a person with healthy alternatives instead of the cookies or doughnuts. This would include plain water. Water can leave you feeling full and may give you just the edge you need to avoid overeating. Use these snacks to curb your cravings, and eat small amounts. This can be enough to get you through until your next bigger meal. Avoid unhealthy choices as these can make you eat more, not less.

Take Smaller Portions When Eating Out

Too many restaurants serve more food then a person needs. Order the smaller portions on the menu and take the extra home with you. Go with a friend and share the meal. Ask if the portions come in smaller sizes.

Eat Regular Meals and Snacks

Starving yourself during the day sets you up for failure at night. Your body is so famished from lack of nutrients that you eat a large meal and probably snack later on at night. Eat throughout the day. Space your meals and snacks out and only eat till you are satisfied and not stuffed. Listen to your body and eat when you are hungry. Just do this within reason and don't go overboard.

Gain Control Over Your Emotions

We tend to overeat more often when we are hurt, bored, angry or frustrated. Try to avoid eating at these times when you have the least control. Try something else like going for a walk or a new hobby. Keep unhealthy snacks out of the house.

Resisting the urge to overeat can be difficult. If we change just a few habits and eat on a regular basis, we can control ourselves and our portions of food. See a doctor or nutritionist if you continue to overeat.

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