It’s no surprise that in this appearance-driven, health-and-fitness-obsessed world many people give up sweets and unhealthy addictions for Lent. It is even less surprising that after working hard at your Lenten promise and surviving midterms and spring break, you are struggling to fight temptation. You may want to give in, but we’re here to help you stay strong and give you the tools to satisfy your cravings.
You’re craving sweets: Sweets and treats are probably the most common thing people give up for Lent. You just want those cookies from Lower, that ice cream from Addie’s or the cups of candy from On The Fly! What your body really needs is chromium, carbon phosphorus, sulfur and tryptophan. What does that translate to? Try fresh fruit, nuts, dairy, or cheese! Satisfy your craving with a little cup of Greek yogurt with grapes, or grab a cheese platter. Make a bag of healthy trail mix with some nuts, cranberries, and granola! Who needs cookies and chocolate when you’re so close to achieving your Lenten promise?
You’re craving bread: You have an addiction to grains – bread or rice or cereal – you want it all the time. Whether you gave up bread completely or you’re just trying to eat less of it, we know it’s hard to stay strong. Your body needs nitrogen, so you want to try to eat more high protein foods in order to fill yourself up. Try fish, meat, nuts or beans. They’ll have you feeling good and full without the regret of eating a deliciously unhealthy sandwich or side of frips.
You’re craving chips: They’re addictive and tempting. We get it. Your body needs calcium. Try eating greens, legumes, or cheese. Grab a cheese platter from Lower and enjoy the little cubes of cheese like they’re chips. They will satisfy your hunger and leave you feeling a lot better than if you had eaten greasy chips. Other good substitutes include carrots or pretzels with hummus. Yum!
You’re craving coffee: You were so brave to give up coffee for Lent. Bravo! Your body wants phosphorous, sulfur, salt, and iron. Try eating things like eggs, dairy, nuts, meat, fish and poultry. If your hunger is satisfied you might be less dependent on coffee; however, if you still are itching to get that latte from the Chocolate Bar, try getting a tea instead. It will satisfy that phantom coffee cup sensation you’ve been having.
You’re craving soda: Giving up soda can be difficult. It can be hard to quit cold turkey and switch to water. Although you may still be taking in calories, flavored water, juice, sports drinks, iced tea, and milk can be helpful replacements to wane you off your soda addiction and ease you into drinking water.
You’re craving alcohol: Whatever your reason for quitting alcohol, there are some replacement drinks to help you through it. Water is always best, but you can also try coffee, diet soda, juice, and iced tea.
No matter what you’ve given up for Lent, you don’t need to give in to temptation when you’re so close! Another great general tip for when you’re feeling hungry or craving something is to try chewing gum or drinking a glass of water before you make your decision. Ask yourself, “Do I really need this? Am I really hungry? Do I really need coffee right now? Can I live without it?”
Good luck collegiettes!
Source:
http://healthwellness808.com/?p=1180
Photo Sources:
http://armandofitnessexpert.com/simple-tricks-to-sustain-a-healthy-relationship-with-food/
http://anniemaeblog.wordpress.com/2011/03/30/the-subtle-temptation-of-fresh-baked-cookies/
http://www.cultofmac.com/109019/starbucks-will-give-you-a-free-iphone-app-with-your-coffee/