Bored snacking affects almost everyone. Many people take a break from studying or working and feel like they have to have something to snack on. If you get bored and find yourself in the kitchen when you aren’t hungry, consider the following options from Gabriel Patterson, Winnipeg nutrition coach instead of reaching for a candy bar or a bag of chips:
1. Drink some cool water
Water is an excellent option for a period of bored snacking. Fix a glass of water with a little ice and lemon juice. Your mind will be occupied, and the cool water will feel great going down. You will emerge more hydrated and less guilty than you would if you opted for a cookie and a soda.
2. Drink sparkling water
If you want something a little less plain than still water, trying sparkling water. Great sparkling water is incredibly refreshing. It provides the consumer with the chance to enjoy carbonation without the sugar of a soda. Sparkling water is available at most gas stations and grocery stores and is sold with or without flavoring.
3. Have a cup of coffee or tea
Having a cup of coffee or tea is a great choice when you are seized by the desire to quench boredom in the kitchen. Fixing the cup will require your attention, and the beverage will give you caffeine to keep you sharp. Both coffee and tea have little to no calories unless you add things to them.
4. Chew gum
If you want to chew on something, gum is a good option. Most chewing gums are relatively low in calories. Gum will give you something to “snack” on for a long time.
5. Put a mint in your mouth
Using a mint follows the same principle as the gum. A mint will stay in your mouth for a while and keep you from shoveling down one of the doughnuts that are glaring at you in the break room. The added benefit will be fresh breath.
“Indulging yourself on unhealthy snacks when you are bored will greatly hinder you on your path to achieving your fitness goals,” stated Gabriel Patterson of Winnipeg. Instead of reaching for a cupcake just because you are bored, try the tips above. If you have to eat during your spout of boredom, opt for fruit. The tips above are meant only for when you want to eat out of boredom. If you are actually hungry, eat something.
