4 Proven Ways to Stop Stress Eating

It's common to respond to stress by distracting yourself with your favorite comfort foods. But now that you're following the South Beach Diet lifestyle, you know that turning to common comfort foods (processed chips, white potatoes, sugary sweets, etc.) may cause swings in your blood sugar that could cause cravings and lead to weight gain. Here are some healthier ways to cope:

1. Stick with the program. If you follow the guidelines set forth by the South Beach Diet, you'll be less likely to have cravings and, as a result, you'll be less likely to turn to food when you face stress. Plus, snacks are encouraged on the plan, so you won't feel deprived.
   
2. Keep your hands busy. Find something else to do with your hands besides eat. Keep the daily crossword nearby, knock off some chores, or distract yourself by calling your friends or family. (Don't use the kitchen phone!)
   
3. Be ready for stress snack-attacks. It's worth repeating that snacks are encouraged on the South Beach Diet, so keep the right foods on hand. Make sure you've got a supply of crunchy vegetables like celery sticks, green and red pepper strips, cauliflower buds, and broccoli florets — you can even cut them up and stash them in resealable bags in your veggie drawer. Feel the urge to dip? Try hummus or eggplant dip, or a bit of spreadable, low-fat cheese (six grams of fat or less per ounce). Also, stock your cupboards and desk drawers with nonperishable South Beach Diet–friendly items like nuts; high-fiber, whole-grain crackers and cereals; dried apricots; and even cans or pouches of water-packed tuna.
   
4. Work out. Exercise is not only a great way to stay fit and manage your weight, it's also a fantastic stress reliever. If going to the gym isn't your thing, clear your mind with a brisk walk around the neighborhood. 

Copyright © 2010 Waterfront Media, Inc.

http://www.southbeachdiet.com/sbd/publicsite/dailydish/dd_20090511.aspx 

AVOID THE #1 DIET MISTAKE!

Added to Articles on Wed 01/06/2010

Losing weight isn't about not eating. It's about regularly eating foods that are filling and rich in nutrients. All too often, those seeking to lose weight practice deprivation diets. When you don't eat enough, your metabolism slows and your body senses deprivation and starts and emergency storage of the calories you do consume.

What are Dr. Oz's tips for avoiding the deprivation diet? EAT! Eat every 3-4 hours and eat healthy foods like those below.

Breakfast
Your body needs fuel to start the day, and when it's deprived of food for longer than 12 hours, your metabolic rate can lower by 40%.

A high-fiber cereal with a banana for potassium and 1% (or soy) milk is a good start. Or you can make Dr. Oz's Magical Breakfast Blaster, a power-packed breakfast you can take on the go.

Lunch
Try 3 ounces of lean meat, like turkey on whole grain bread. A hummus spread will add lots of fiber, protein and flavor. Include a piece of fruit as a natural sugar boost.

Dinner
The equation for a healthy dinner is 1/3 lean protein, 1/3 fiber or carbs and the rest should be vegetables. Try 4 oz. of salmon, rice and veggies!

Snack throughout the day on nuts, fruit and yogurt.