[imagesource: @RaniaVohra/Twitter]

Almost two weeks into lockdown and, like most of the country, I’m running out of things to do when I’m not working.

The impulse to get off the couch has died a slow and terrible death (check out this app, if you want to make better life choices), and I’m snacking.

I’m not talking regular snacking, here. It’s kind where you consume the entire contents of your fridge – even the stuff you don’t like.

The struggle is real.

But, according to The Telegraph, this isn’t unusual behaviour, considering the circumstances.

“There are chemicals in the brain that are linked to emotional eating,” says Dahlia Kulkarni, a registered dietitian and founder of The Dietitian’s Room London.

“Serotonin is a chemical which plays a major role in human emotion and general mood. It is made with a part of protein called tryptophan and this can enter the brain when carbohydrate-rich foods are eaten. This may explain the need to eat sweet, comfort foods.”

Still, if I and others are going to emerge from this lockdown as more than a shadow of our former selves, something has to change.

Put down the Doritos and check out these tips for fighting the urge to snack:

Wait It Out

When you have a craving and you aren’t actually hungry, sit it out for at least half an hour and it will probably go away.

Breakfast Really Is The Most Important Meal Of The Day

A well-balanced and filling breakfast will go a long way towards helping you fight the urge to snack. If you struggle with morning foods, try a smoothie instead. 

Put On Your Trainers

Get off the couch and do some exercise, even if it’s just a bit of yoga or some cardio. If you get those endorphins going you’ll be less likely to reach for the chocolate bar.

Don’t Buy The Chocolate Bar

When you do your weekly shop, don’t stock up on unhealthy snacks. If they aren’t in your house you can’t eat them. Instead, follow the advice of nutritionists when compiling your shopping list, thus making the most of your daily meal plan.

Water Is Your Friend

The next time you feel a craving coming on, drink some water. Keeping a glass or bottle of water on your desk or coffee table will prevent unnecessary trips to the fridge.

These seem like intuitive solutions, but sometimes it helps to have a list of rules to follow.

Good luck out there.

I believe in you.

[source:telegraph]