October 23rd, 2016

​When you think about food cravings, typically the first thing that comes to mind would be some type of junk food. Something that is high in calories, low in nutrients, processed and very unhealthy. Is
that what you tend to crave when a craving kicks in? What is your go-to craving--chocolate chip cookies? A big bowl of ice cream? My go to craving is a cup cake/birthday cake or a good donut. :) 

I'll be honest with you--I believe in a balanced life. I'm not saying to never enjoy a sweet treat again
-- not at all. The issue with ingesting processed foods and the chemicals that come along with
them on an ongoing basis is the danger of addiction. We absolutely don't want that, as it can disrupt the way our bodies function and wreak havoc in more ways than you can imagine.

So, if you feel like you may be addicted to sugar and/or processed foods, there is something you can do to help. There are many foods you can add into your diet to balance your microbiome and get your
good bacteria back to a healthy place. These foods are generally fermented foods that are filled with the good bacteria that your body needs to balance itself again and rid you of those cravings. These fermented foods can include kimchi, kombucha, sauerkraut and kefir to name a few. I'd love for you to choose at least one of these to add into your diet this week and get that good bacteria back into your body. Taking a probiotic on a daily basis will help balance your bacteria as well.

Food Swaps for Popular Cravings...
Another of my favorite ways to combat cravings is to trade out unhealthy foods with beneficial ones.
If you're craving potato chips...Try some raw carrot or celery sticks instead for that crunch.
If you're craving soda...Try some sparkling water such as LaCroix. There are so many flavors to choose from; you're bound to find one you love --and you can finally ditch that soda!
If you're craving a milkshake...Try a green smoothie or a protein shake instead to quench your craving for something cold and sweet.

Another helpful tip that I implement is to indulge mindfully. When you do decide to have a treat, enjoy a smaller portion than you would normally have. Teaching yourself restraint and how to indulge
mindfully is an incredibly useful tool that you will carry with you always.