Why is junk food so addictive? Studies show that manufacturers aim for the point where consumers experience ultimate pleasure combining salty, sweet, and fatty flavors together. These combinations are difficult to resist, and the brain reacts similarly to cocaine.
Ways to resist the junk:
- Plan meals and snacks, have them packed and ready, making you less susceptible because alternatives are ready and waiting! I meal prep on Sunday, shop, make mason jar meals, and prepare veggies with nut butters and hummus.
- Focus on the perimeter of the grocery store where you will find healthy produce, dairy, meats, fish, and grains that are packed with nutrients. As you learn to incorporate these foods into your diet the fake junk food will begin to lose its appeal.
- Choose foods that make you full such as healthy fats and protein. We need fat, so if you are eating fat-free, time to dump that stuff! Nuts, olive oil, avocado, fatty fish like salmon, or coconut oil are great resources. Consume foods that contain protein: meat/fish, or vegetarian sources such as legumes, tofu, and nuts. When you are full, you are less likely to reach for the junk.
- Choose fruits instead of sugar, which are high in vitamins, water, and antioxidants, as well as fiber, which slows and balances blood sugar. Wean yourself off sugar and fruit will taste really sweet!
- Diversify your food choices and try new things! Eating a more varied diet lessens the chances of reaching for junk out of boredom, as well as helps with disease prevention. How about kale or collards, or maybe yellow beets or rainbow carrots with a new hummus flavor!
- Focus on the health benefits and positive effects of eating healthy! You only live once! Let’s make it a good one!