While avoiding food completely is a bad idea, there are times when you really need to stop eating and take a good look at your diet and lifestyle. This is particularly important if you tend to eat only foods that are high in sugar, fat or calories. Instead of starving your body, focus on tricks that will help you stop eating the wrong foods and get you started in your journey toward weight loss.
Step 1
Don't skip meals. Eating frequently throughout the day but keeping portions small (about the size of a dessert dish) controls hunger and makes it easier to avoid temptation. Try to eat five to six small meals a day, with no more than three to four hours in between them.
Step 2
Look for things to distract yourself when cravings start. If you tend to eat when you're bored or sad, find alternate ways to keep yourself occupied that don't include food. They can be something as simple as going for a walk or reading a book, or you can watch TV, take up a hobby, or take a nap.
Step 3
Place a photo of yourself on the door of the fridge. Find one that shows you at your highest weight or looking scruffy. Every time you reach for food, you'll get a reminder of why you're trying to lose weight and hopefully a push to walk away.
Step 4
Create a bulletin board with pictures and motivational phrases or write down a list of your goals. List the reasons why you want to lose weight, including things besides looking better or fitting into skinny jeans. Every time you're tempted to eat, reread your list and remind yourself why you started your weight loss program.
Step 5
Don't eat mindlessly. If you snack while watching TV, either stop doing it or pour yourself a single serving or whatever it is you're eating into a bowl. Eating directly from a bag can easily lead to overeating, as you'll have a harder time keeping track of your portions. The same is true if you eat while at the computer, waiting in line or driving somewhere.
Step 6
Drink lots of water. Dehydration is often confused with hunger and you may end up eating when your body is just thirsty. Carry bottled water with you everywhere and always drink a glass before reaching for a snack. If you're still hungry afterward, then go ahead and have something healthy, like a piece of fruit or a low-fat yogurt.
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