5 Things to Do Instead of Binge-Eating When You Are Bored

Cheesy fries or a juicy burger can only do so much for your binge-eating session. 

"Junk food - this term is self-explanatory and is often used to describe foods that have no nutritional value. The processing and preservatives used in making junk food make it difficult for your body to digest the food. The undigested food or partially digested food creates toxins (ama) in the body, which gives rise to many diseases," says Ayurveda acharya Dr Partap Chauhan, director of Jiva Ayurveda.

He adds that even though your favourite fast-food binge may feel good for the moment, it can actually make you feel more stressed and tired. The toxins produced by undigested junk food blocks the circulation channels and affects the nutrition supply to your body cells and tissues. So, you end up feeling fatigued, lazy and tired.

You can follow these tips to cut down your intake of junk food while maintaining a healthy weight –

Don your chef hat 

Inculcate the habit of eating healthy at home. Try out different at-home versions of your fave food. This will make you more aware of using healthy ingredients and the nutritional value of the food you are eating.

Are you bored or thirsty?

When you feel the junk food craving, have a glass of water or just engage yourself in some activity. Most of the times, your cravings are just the body signalling that you need to drink more water. Another thing is to eat as per your metabolism, age, immunity levels, and the season. During monsoon, one should avoid consuming raw foods. During winters, you can have heavy foods and you can eat more often. Fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables are a must all season, especially during the warmer months. 

Snack healthy

If you cannot satiate your urge to snack with water, indulge in healthy snacks such as nuts, puffed rice or just take a coffee or green tea break.

Comfort food that is healthy

When you are sick or just not feeling your best, it is easy to gravitate towards comfort food that may not be healthy. It is better that you avoid eating those foods. Try to include immunity-boosting foods in your regular diet such as a comforting bowl of flavourful home-cooked curry, soups and baked goodies. 

Avoid frying

You can try alternative methods of cooking like baking and steaming. For example, if you want to have fries or chips. Try having baked chips.