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Carb Addict? 3 Dietary Changes To Fight Cravings

Many people love various forms of carbohydrates and may even describe themselves as carb addicts. Unfortunately, too many carbs on a regular basis will often pack on the pounds and can increase your chances of developing diabetes. If you want to reduce your carb intake or need to for medical reasons, there are ways to ease yourself into a healthier lifestyle.

Reduce Carbs Slowly

You may have tried reducing your carb intake by suddenly eating little or no carbs. In many cases, this can contribute to intense cravings, which are difficult to overcome. Start by keeping a diary of your typical intake of calories and carbohydrates. Once you have a general idea of the percentage of carbs you typically eat, try slowly reducing your carbohydrate intake until you achieve the recommended percentage of carbs. If you are diabetic or struggle with your weight, you may need to eat a diet with a lower percentage of carbohydrates than the recommended 45 to 65 percent of your caloric intake.

Supplement With Other Foods

When you are reducing your carbs, do not be afraid to supplement with other foods that can have a satisfying texture. For example, cheese or other dairy products might have a higher fat content but can be satiating when you are missing carbs. Add a sprinkle of cheese to your whole-wheat pasta so you do not feel completely deprived as you adjust to a lower-carb lifestyle. Unless you have medical conditions, such as high cholesterol or heart disease, a small increase in the amount of fat or cholesterol you eat is unlikely to cause problems.

Eat Low Glycemic Foods

Carbohydrate content only tells you a limited amount of information about how foods work in your body. For example, sugar and fiber are both carbs, but are completely different in the way they are metabolized by your body. When you are trying to decrease your carbs and combat cravings, you need to eat foods to help regulate your blood sugar.

Part of the reason for cravings and intense hunger when you eat certain foods, such simple carbohydrates, is they empty from the stomach quickly and cause erratic blood sugar levels. Try choosing low-glycemic carbohydrates when you eat them. When it is time to treat yourself with a high-glycemic food, make sure you are consuming the food with protein and fiber to help offset blood sugar spikes and so you stay satiated longer.

Lowering your carbohydrate intake and fighting against cravings can be difficult when you feel like you are addicted. Making small and consistent changes in your diet can help you reduce cravings and maintain a healthier diet. For assistance, visit a weight loss clinic.


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