Comfort Foods

Probably all people have been addicted by food cravings or “the munchies” at some point in their lives. This tends to happen most during periods of stress, and sometimes even boredom. So what is the best way to combat this desire for “comfort foods?”

First, try to resolve the conditions that cause these cravings. The best remedy for stress is exercise, especially martial arts training which also incorporates many other techniques for stress control. Besides being healthier than indulging in a food cravings, physical activity keeps you feeling better for longer.

And if your munchies are brought about by boredom, get- ting active is the best solution, as well. You can also try de- laying your intake of the food, and maybe the craving will go away.

Second, accept that it is OK for you to seek comfort in the foods you eat. The keys to not letting your comfort foods ruin your chances of a healthy diet are twofold:

1. Beware of your portions. One chocolate chip cookie is not going to destroy your diet, but a whole box of them is going to be impossible to compensate for.

2. Make healthful substitutions for your favorite foods. Try sherbet topped with fresh fruit in- stead of ice cream with marshmallow topping. Or pretzels dipped in mustard instead of potato chips and dip. You can also try substituting fruit puree (such as applesauce) for about half the fat in baked goods, such as coffee cakes, etc. To control your portions of baked goods, after your craving has abated, give away the leftovers to co-workers or neigh- bors, or simply throw them out.

Deal with your emotions in a positive way. Exercise daily and attend your martial arts classes regularly. Recognize your personal comfort foods and indulge in them without compromising your overall healthful lifestyle.

Jennifer Galea is a contributing writer for Martial Arts Monthly magazine.

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