From eating ginger to simply eating slower, eight of the best natural methods to help curb cravings during lockdown have been revealed.

It is particularly important to be aware of snacking in the current climate, as obesity is now thought to be one of the biggest risk factors in developing severe coronavirus symptoms.

The team behind weight loss aid Skinny Sprinkles, have researched and revealed natural ways you can resist the urge to snack excessively, and try and keep yourself feeling fuller for longer. They recommend trying small but effective lifestyle changes, like drinking lots of water, eating more protein, and managing your stress levels.

Several foods and drinks have also been revealed to help to keep any cravings at bay, such as dark chocolate, cayenne pepper and green tea.

Controlling cravings works when striving for a healthier lifestyle in general by eating a balanced diet paired with regular exercise.

Fighting urges

A spokesperson for Skinny Sprinkles says: ‘Constantly feeling hungry and having to fight urges to snack is a huge obstacle to face when you’re trying to lose weight. Most people who are overweight know what is required to lose weight, but, when used to their current habits such as large portions, comfort eating and unhealthy snacks taking those first steps towards healthier habits is difficult. According to recent NHS statistics, 60 per cent of women are classed as overweight or obese.

It’s easy to open the snack cupboard to raid snacks like crisps, biscuits and chocolate, but these will only leave you feeling hungrier after an hour or two. Instead, why not consider the following advice and opt for nuts and green tea – or even a small amount of dark chocolate? We’ve researched some of the best, natural methods to keep those cravings at bay, and help control your weight in lockdown.’

Eat more protein

Foods rich in protein can increase your feeling of fullness, which may stop you from snacking in between meals. If you struggle to last through to lunchtime without snacking, you could try eating a high-protein breakfast. Eggs, peanut butter, and cottage cheese are all full of protein and can leave you feeling fuller than a bowl of cereal in the morning.

Drink plenty of water

Some studies show if you drink two glasses of water before a meal you will eat far less than if you didn’t. So, if you ever feel like you are overeating or snacking excessively, ask yourself when you last had a glass of water. It is important to drink at least the recommended 2 litres of water per day. If just drinking water is not enough, there are products you can buy that include natural dietary fibres to mix with water, which are clinically proven to help you feel fuller for longer.

Eat a small amount of dark chocolate

The bitter flavour of dark chocolate is supposed to leave you feeling fuller, as it can slow the rate your stomach empties itself after a meal. Some studies prove even smelling dark chocolate can help with appetite suppression!

Incorporate ginger into your diet

Ginger has a wealth of benefits, but it is also believed to be a natural appetite suppressor. Many cultures for centuries have used ginger for its digestive powers. It is supposed to improve your digestion which in effect, makes you less hungry.

Get nutty

If you are the mood for a snack, perhaps eat a handful of almonds. Almonds are full of antioxidants, magnesium and vitamin E, which have been known to increase the feeling of fullness. Other snacks like apples are also a great option, as they are filled with both soluble fibre and protein. When you combine protein foods with fibre-rich food, you help to ​curb hunger cravings for hours after you eat.

Spice up dinnertime

Capsaicin (in hot peppers) and capsiate (found in sweet peppers) can help boost your metabolism and the feeling of fullness. Some evidence suggests that eating spicy food can (slightly) boost your body temperature to burn more calories, so don’t be afraid to add some spices to your meals next dinnertime.

Drink green tea

For centuries, people have been using green tea to suppress their cravings and appetite. This is because it contains EGCG, which is a nutrient that makes you feel satisfied rather than hungry. People have also been known to drink the tea to help boost their metabolism.

Manage your stress

It’s not an easy time to combat stress, but it can be done. Remember, how you choose to react to situations is down to you. Try to avoid getting stressed about situations that you can’t change, as snacking and binge eating bad foods can be down to your stress levels. Stress can cause the body to overproduce hormones, which can make you hungry. It’s important to manage your stress by calming your mind through things like meditation or reading a book.