Some people argue that fat, and high calorie foods are addicting and narcotic-like, but a recent study shines a light on what many have had an inkling.
The effect on our senses makes you think twice about having that huge piece of cheesecake, or bacon burger with french fries, right? Of course the study is not conclusive, but it seems to me as though the study may be onto something, especially if there is a possibility of creating pharmaceutical remedies to block the need to engorge oneself on fatty foods.
It’s one thing to 
have an occasional fatty food, but the repercussions of such an act could lead into a spiral that wasn’t intended. I’ve found that even just splurging once in a while, for myself, can lead me into making poor decisions as far as food choices go, in the weeks proceeding the initial indiscretion.
According to the article, what happens is that the “pleasure centers” of the brain i.e serotonin and dopamine, crash and are overloaded that it takes an even greater amount of any particular fatty or high calorie foods to feel normal, or satisfied.
It does make sense, which is why it’s so crucial to make a concerted effort to choose fresh and healthy choices for foods to avoid a downward spiral, much like a recovering drug addict.
Here are a few tips that I try to follow to make good decisions about what goes into my body and that of my family:
1. Fresh is best: Fresh foods are high in nutrients and full of fiber. For instance instead of having orange juice, opt for an actual orange, which is packed full of vitamin c and fiber.
2. Frozen as a secondary to fresh: If fresh isn’t feasible, or if you bought it fresh, and don’t have time to consume it and have frozen it, then don’t worry, since most nutrients are maintained despite the low temperature. Nutrients are destroyed in high amounts of heat. Broccoli, cauliflower, peas, carrots, green beans and anything else you can find are good options.
3. Low Heat: When cooking veggies, do it over a low and longer heat so that the nutrients are not destroyed during cooking, leaving you with nothing but a limp piece of organic matter, which normally doesn’t taste very good.
4. Portions: I love food, and this is one thing I’ve been struggling with lately. Portion control is very important. If it’s hard to figure out what a portion really is, you can either go by the palm method, being whatever fits in the small palm of your hand is about a portion size. Of course don’t pile it on, but you get the point.
5. Share your entree: If portion control doesn’t work for you and your family, try sharing an entree, especially when portion control is hard at a restaurant. Most places give several servings in one order, so it may be more practical and satisfying to share the plate with your loved one, or finding something practical (like veggies and mashed potatoes) to share with your little one, that way you don’t end up ordering chicken fingers and fries for a growing body.
6.Share your dessert: I’ve found that sharing a dessert is much more rewarding and fun than devouring a whole piece of chocolate cake or cheesecake by yourself. If you’re going to have it, then spread the love!
7: Stay away from chips and other processed snacks: One of the hardest thing to kick is the chip habit. Staying away from chips is important since they are high in calories, and are so easy to eat. It’s very easy to fill up on them too. A good alternative is fresh carrots, celery, and bell pepper slices. Anything that is crunchy and that you enjoy the taste of is a good option.
8: Try a glass of water before you eat: Sometimes people mistake thirst for hunger, so instead of chowing down, try a glass of water first to see if you aren’t really just thirsty. On that note, try to get at least one liter of water in a day, and more if you’re pregnant. The more water you drink, the better, since a lot of weight people tend to hold on to is water weight, and will be shed once the body is receiving enough hydration.
9. Brush your teeth after having something sweet: I know your mom told you this, but does everyone always do it? I’ve found that if I don’t brush my teeth after eating something that wasn’t so healthy for me, that I was more likely to go back and sneak a few more bites than if I immediately brushed my teeth after just having a few bites.
10: Don’t deprive yourself: This is a really hard thing to balance, so be careful with it, but don’t always deprive yourself of the yumminess that can be found around every corner. Share your dessert, or big sugary coffee drink, or anything else that is packed full of calories.
There are many foods that are so delicious, but hard to kick. I’d have to say that ice cream is the hardest thing for me to give up, and it’s something I struggle with, even considering I’m lactose intolerant! I’m going to make a goal of only having a small serving of ice cream once a month, but it’s going to be tough!
What is your “drug of choice?”
I’m intrigued to find out what food that has you by it’s reigns, and what steps you are going to take to kick the “addiction,” if any.
~Hale Mom
*Disclosure: The information above is not from a certified professional and should not be used to treat or diagnose any illness, and is for informational purposes ONLY. Please consult a doctor or registered dietitian if you have any illness or have any special dietary needs.
