Which of the following is a healthy approach to dealing with cravings?

Keeping a food diary to monitor emotional triggers is a healthy approach to dealing with cravings because it encourages self-awareness and reflection. By documenting when cravings occur, what emotions are associated with them, and the context in which they arise, individuals can identify patterns and better understand their relationship with food. This insight can empower people to make informed decisions about their eating habits, allowing for healthier coping strategies to be developed in response to emotional triggers. Instead of resorting to avoidance or extreme dietary restrictions, which can lead to increased cravings and potential binge eating, maintaining a food diary supports a balanced and mindful approach to eating, helping to foster a positive relationship with food over time.

In contrast, avoiding all indulgent foods could lead to feelings of deprivation and ultimately make cravings more intense. Only eating fruits and vegetables lacks nutritional balance and may not satisfy all of an individual’s dietary needs, increasing the likelihood of cravings for other foods. Restricting meals to one per day can also create a risk for binge eating and does not promote a sustainable or healthy eating pattern. Thus, maintaining a food diary emerges as a constructive method for managing cravings effectively.