Here we are, at the 49th Day of the Give-Back Diet.  It’s a pleasure to be together with you, day-by-day.  A few of you have asked me about what to do when your appetite is “out-of-control.”  So I offer you some tips and ideas, for natural appetite suppressants.

While you are doing your best to limit portion sizes, and sugar and fat from your diet, you are actually developing a healthy eating routine. Think of it as new sets of habits that are being formed, one after the other, over-laying the negative, self-destructive habits you may have had in the past.

In case there’s any time when the new, healthier habits have not fully become routine, here’s what to try:

ACTION PLAN:

— If you are about to overeat, or swallow some food or snack that you know isn’t good for you…

Pray: Take a moment to take a deep breath or 2 or 3, close your eyes, and say, “God, please help me… Show me the way.”

Have Hot Tea: A cup of piping herbal tea, or caffeinated, can help shut off your stomach’s hunger signals.

Drink Water:  This is good to do throughout the day, and especially before meals.  I recommend room temperature water.

Go for a Walk:  Go outside and get some fresh air.  Or stay inside and walk around a different locale than you’re in.  Just don’t walk into your kitchen!

Get Distracted: read a book, do a puzzle, mend something torn, call a friend, make a “to-Do” list, there are many ways to distract yourself, and get your attention off the food.

Have a Small Taste: Sometimes, if you’re craving a high-sugar or high-fat treat, taking a tiny taste can satisfy you.  This doesn’t work for someone addicted to the food, though.  In that case a small taste can open a floodgate of trouble.

A Sprinkle of Cinnamon:  It’s said that cinnamon has the power to immediately shut off food cravings.  Works for me.

Try Something of Similar Texture:  If it’s something crunchy or salty you crave – instead of chips or crackers, have crunchy carrots or nuts.  If it’s a sweet, have dried fruit, or fresh fruit, or applesauce (with some cinnamon on top), instead of candy or desserts.

Take a Nap:  May be you’re tire, and need energy.. Get it from rest, instead of caloric foods.

Do YOU have any natural appetite suppressants you can recommend?  PLEASE POST THEM.

Do your friends a favor – email this article to them, and ask them to subscribe to my daily newsletter, and return daily to www.Beliefnet.com/drnorris.

HERE’S A LIST OF EVERY DAY OF THE “GIVE-BACK DIET.”  START TODAY!