You know that the more you eat junk food, the more you crave it, right? I know it’s especially true with sweets. I’ll eat a chocolate bar mid-morning, then mid-afternoon, I’ll want another sweet treat, like a donut or slice of pie. You might feel the same about savoury snacks like chips and french fries.
We know that this kind of diet isn’t good for you, whether it’s for your overall health or waistline. But did you know that the more you eat healthier food, the more you crave it, too?
Researchers at Tufts University and Massachusetts General Hospital found that people who followed a healthy diet plan gradually began to change their appetite, preferring healthier food over junk food. This change occurred over the course of 6 months, which may be how long it takes you to change your preference as well. Why not try it to see if it’s true for you?
Here are some ways you can change your diet, and hopefully, your appetite for junk food:
- Don’t cut out all junk food immediately. You want a lasting change, so do it gradually.
- Increase the number of vegetables and fruit you eat. You don’t have to eat them plain – add some greens to your omelet, request kale in your next smoothie, or munch on berries instead of chips for your snack.
- Pureed vegetables and fruit can be used in your cooking and baking.