Adopting new habits can be hard, especially when old bad habits are being left behind. If you're trying to change your eating habits, add another layer of difficulty. Alas, everyone has a weakness. It's almost scary how many of us just happen to have the exact same weakness, especially women. All day long you're super woman balancing work, family, and everything else while holding true to your super strict diet - until night falls. Then suddenly, you are a hungry beast craving anything that will sufficiently spoil your hard work during the day. Though the trigger may be different, many people who crave carbs at night can track the root of their cravings to one of these three causes.
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- You work out too late at night.
Working out in the evenings is typically fine. However, if you are not consuming an adequate meal after your workout you are surely going to be craving one. It's just that simple. One would be wise to work out earlier in the day, at least before 6, so you can fit in a post workout meal with some complex carbs in it. Your best bet is to try to work out earlier or be extremely regimented about getting a meal in right after. A whey protein shake and a hardy meal of lean protein and at least two cups of vegetables ought to do it.
- You didn't eat enough during the day.
Without good size meals that satisfy your hunger during the day it will catch up to you at night. After a long day your body will be craving calories so save yourself the drama by making breakfast your biggest meal and taper down throughout the day. If you don't feel full after breakfast, you're not doing it right. Have some oatmeal, a few eggs, and some fruit with a glass of tea or orange juice. Try to eat every 3 hours or so to keep your body fueled for activity.
- It's just a habit. Environment contributes a lot to what you crave. If every night you're used to watching TV with the family and popping popcorn or eating chips, it's going to feel unnatural as soon as your rear hits the couch if your hands are empty. Just like any other bad habit you need to break, it takes time. Have dinner before you sit down to watch TV that way you won't have actual hunger as an excuse to binge.
No matter which reason best describes your situation, there is a simple solution for each. It is all about what you eat and when. Put some thought into it so you won't leave anything to chance. The more control you have over your diet the better. Sometimes all you can do is be strong and just say no.
