Excessive Snacking

Question:

I have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. During the day at work I eat very little, but in the evenings and weekends, I can't seem to stay out of the kitchen. Do you have any suggestions to control my snacking in the evenings and weekends?

Answer:

Rather than eating your day's worth of food when you get home from work, I suggest that you eat regularly the entire day.

1. Smaller meals. Eat every 2-3 hours. This way you are constantly supplying your body with energy when it needs it, and you also avoid overeating. When you overeat you consume so much energy that you leave your body the only choice to store it, as sugar or fat.
   
2. Snacks. Bag portions into Ziploc snack bags (or any smaller plastic bag will do). Bring two-three of these with you to work. Snack on this between breakfast and lunch, or between lunch and dinner. Or eat whenever you are hungry!
3. Water. Guzzle up. Yes it keeps you hydrated and yes it can curb your appetite, but if you keep yourself hydrated, you'll find that your brain sends fewer signals to munch on food you aren't hungry for or beverages you aren't thirsty for.
   

Because you are diabetic be mindful of your sugar and carbohydrate intake. On the weekends, if you practice these three things you'll notice that because you eat frequently you don't deprive your body of food. No matter how frequently you eat, listen to the cues your brain is telling you. To put it simple, eat when hungry, stop when full. You can do this!

Best of luck,

Priyanka