Hi All! How do you handle hunger or cravings during fasting periods? What strategies or tricks help you stay on track?

Hi other newbie here!

Pre op was difficult during those periods for me too. As I'm sure nuts/surgeons and everyone here repeats a billion times (lol) protein helps you stay fuller longer, so up your protein even pre op to help keep sated and if you haven't already- avoid caffeine and sugar *now*, they can worsen hunger cravings. I cut both cold turkey and would reach for a protein bar if I had a snack attack.

But I think the most helpful was people distracting me from hunger. Get out more, get busy with a task that requires your focus, socialize more, do anything to keep your mind off it. If you're stationary and doing something like playing video games or reading, that hunger sneaks up on you real quick!

I also recommend this post surgery (but don't do anything your bariatric team says not to!), as being active and busy distracted me during the healing process and some phase struggles.

Hope this helps!

Edited June 17, 20242 yr by batofVenus

Here are 8 ways to curb your cravings during intermittent fasting.
1. Plan ahead

2. Start with a small goal

3. Drink more water

4. Increase your protein intake

5. Focus on fiber rich foods

6. Make sure you are getting enough sleep

7. Slow down and eat mindfully

8. Keep yourself busy and distracted

Here is an article about 8 ways to curb your cravings during intermittent fasting https://scitechdaily.com/8-ways-to-curb-cravings-during-intermittent-fasting/. I hope this helps you.

What do you mean by ‘during fasting periods’? Are you doing intermittent fasting?

Are you experiencing real hunger or head hunger? Feeling real hunger is usually a sign your body needs fuel especially if you haven’t eaten for a period of time.

Distraction is the best strategy when head hunger hits. Read, go for a walk, craft, play a game, meditate, check your socials & this forum, call a friend or family member, clean out a drawer or cupboard, etc. Sometimes a warm drink is helpful like green or herbal tea.

If it is head hunger, take the time to reflect on why you may experiencing it. Check your emotions: are you stressed, anxious, frustrated, angry, sad, etc.? Is it habit eating? Like you always eat at a certain time or when doing a certain activity (like watching TV). Are you bored? Are you hungry or thirsty?