Identifying & Substituting

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Identifying & Substituting
Try to discover what you're truly hungry for. First, think about the item you crave and identify what food group it's in:

• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Carbohydrates
• Proteins
• Fats and Sweets

Think about the texture you're imagining. Is it crunchy, or smooth and soothing you want? Do you want something just to chew on?

Next, determine if it's "going to be an issue" -- in other words, if you'll feel guilty if you eat it. If it will really make you feel bad - do yourself a big favor and don't eat it.

See if substituting something positive from the same food group will satisfy you. Here are some examples:

1. If you're craving - Try
   Candy - Fresh fruit, or a stick of gum
   Ice cream - Applesauce or sorbet
   Cheese - Tofu or yogurt
   Potato chips - Pretzels or popcorn
   Cheese puffs - Carrots

If the substitutions don't "get it," you can try having a tiny taste of whatever calls you, and leave it at that. (A warning, though, sometimes giving yourself license for a little gets out of control. I'm not good at this, so I don't do it myself.)




If all else fails, and you binge out - don't worry. It's not the end of the world. Just try not to do it again tomorrow. Be sure to look to God for guidance, and accept it when it comes.
Norris J. Chumley