How to Stop Hunger Cravings When You Are Not Eating

Hunger cravings can be a major hurdle for those who are fasting, whether it be for weight loss, or for spiritual reasons. Fasting causes your brain to send hormones through your body that increase appetite, cause hunger pangs, and cause intense cravings for certain foods. There are certain things that can be done to eliminate, or at least reduce, the intensity of this hunger. However, remember that fasting can be dangerous if continued too long, or in those with certain medical conditions. Always get your physician's approval before starting a fast.

Instructions

• 1

  Drink an eight-ounce glass of water. The water will fill your stomach, which can temporarily ease your hunger pangs. Drink a zero-calorie flavored water if you're craving something sweet.

• 2

  Drink a cup of green or black tea. The tea works like water to fill your stomach. Both green and black teas contain caffeine. Caffeine has been shown to suppress appetite and decrease hunger.

• 3

  Take a nap. A 30-minute nap can eradicate hunger cravings. Additionally, a 2004 study published in "Annals of Internal Medicine" found that getting enough sleep prevents ghrelin levels from increasing. Ghrelin is a hormone produced by certain cells in the stomach and pancreas. Ghrelin increases hunger by stimulating neurons in the brain, which in turn sends out hunger signals.

• 4

  Spend an hour doing cardiovascular exercise. Moderate cardiovascular exercise suppresses ghrelin and increases peptide YY. Peptide YY is a hormone produced by the gastrointestinal tract. It suppresses appetite by engaging appetite-regulating circuitry within the brain.

• 5

  Distract yourself. Call a friend, go for a walk, or meditate. When your brain is focused on a specific activity, hunger cravings subside. Continue whatever activity you choose for at least 30 minutes.