Health and the Writer by Camy Tang

Whether you’re a writer who also works a full-time job or are a busy stay-at-home-mom, it’s hard to stay healthy. I researched and figured out a bunch of tips and tricks to help me stay in shape without carving out of my precious writing time. I also found some tips to help me have just general better health. Pick and choose which of these will work for you.

Curbing cravings

It’s 4:00 p.m. and I’m staring at the candy vending machine with longing.

Or else I’m opening the refrigerator to look what’s there.

Sound familiar?

It’s actually good to eat smaller, more frequent meals. You’ll eliminate those four or five o’clock munchies if you had a healthy snack at three, when you weren’t starving.

Remember portions! Don’t scarf down a 1,000 calorie burger. Try to aim for 100-300 calories.

Try to choose something high-fiber. It’ll make you feel full for longer.

Fresh fruit (go for variety, not the same apple you buy all the time)
Dried fruit (although again, watch portions because they’re high in sugar and calories)
Cereal (it’s not just for breakfast)
Multi-grain crackers (watch your fat content)
Veggies (keep an eye on any dressings you use for dipping)
Popcorn
Yogurt or cottage cheese
Part-skim mozzarella cheese

As a disclaimer, small frequent meals don’t work for everyone. But it’s worth a shot to see if it helps with your cravings.

And if you’re still looking for something at five, try drinking water instead. It’s documented that often people mistake thirst for hunger.

Camy Tang is a novelist also fighting the battle of the bulge. Find out more about her and her books at http://www.camytang.com/, or enjoy the read on her blog at http://camys-loft.blogspot.com/.