May 06, 2006
Tips for Identifying Hunger Cues
Ask yourself these questions to help recognize hunger. If you answer “yes” to any of them, then you are not really hungry:
- Am I thirsty?
- Am I tired?
- Am I bored?
- When was the last time I ate — was it less than three hours ago?
- Can I wait 15 minutes before I eat again? Until the next meal?
Now, rate your hunger.
- On a scale from 1 to 10, what is my hunger? (“Not very hungry” is a 1, while “extremely hungry” is a 10. If you rate yourself an 8, 9, or 10, it’s time to eat.)
If it’s time to eat, select whole grain varieties of all your favorite foods like pasta, rice (and other grains), breads, cereals, energy bars, and crackers. Your heart and your taste buds will thank you!
4 comments
That’s so true. Sometimes you think you’re hungry but all you are is thirsty. Instead of pulling out the chips, have a couple of glasses of water.
I have a “bubba” keg. It holds 52 ounces of water. I fill that up in the morning and by the time I get off of work, I need a refill! I still need snacks to helps my tummy to stay happy in between meals.
This is VERY TRUE. When I lost 30 pounds, it was mostly because I was constantly drinking water and I wasn’t as hungry during the day (plus excersize of course). Make a new water bottle friend to keep at your side!
I have been adding more protine and fiber to my diet ,I also drink water and smoothies ,It has helped to control my hunger and keep me healthy.