Create happy memories around healthy foods

Create happy memories around healthy foods. Instead of turning to ice cream when you feel sad, think about happy times centered around healthy foods. If you do not have any, create them. Throw a healthy dinner party with a few close friends and focus on fun ways to use vegetables, or have a lunch date at a healthy restaurant. Build happy memories you can return to when you feel down and drawn to unhealthy alternatives.

Recreating and redirecting ritualistic practices are keys to changing behaviors and avoiding unhealthy cravings. If you crave that big piece of pie on Thanksgiving, use portion control. Take a small slice, eat it slowly, sip some tea, and truly savor the eating experience. If you always run to the candy dish at your grandma’s, run to the kitchen for a glass of water or, better yet, bring your own healthy snack to share.