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7 Clever Hacks for Drinking and Snacking Less

7 Clever Hacks for Drinking and Snacking Less

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As much as I hoped motherhood would have transformed me into some sort of sober saint, I have actually found the exact opposite to be true. In fact, the terrible two’s, dramatically exhibited by my youngest son this winter, exacerbated my inner lush – ultimately leaving me with an extra 5 to 10 pounds of excess cushioning.

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Given the official start of summer is only a few weeks away, I have frantically vowed to clean up my act by tightening up my diet and cutting back on the booze. Struggling with my weight since adolescence however, this ain’t my first rodeo, folks!

With years of yo-yo dieting under my belt, I have become self-aware enough now to know I am not much for the “white knuckle”/ willpower method. For me…it’s all about self-trickery and distraction.

Today I am going to share some “tricky” tactics I have acquired for drinking less.

Note to my sober friends: even if you aren’t a lush like me, these tips can be applied to food as well (everyone has their vices…I just so happen to be an equal opportunist).

ways to drink less alcohol

**For everyone asking, click here for the affiliate link to my tie-dye pants **

  1. Flavored Carbonated Water-
    Since discovering the many amazing flavors of La Croix, my life has not been the same.  La Croix, if you are reading this please sponsor my blog! But seriously…After a long, stressful day, I used to opt for a glass of wine to decompress while preparing dinner. Unfortunately one glass turned into four, and before I knew it, all of my will-power was gone. In an effort to clean up my diet and  avoid the consumption of empty calories on weekday evenings (I still treat myself on Friday night with wine), I now pour flavored, carbonated water into a festive wine glass and sip on it while I cook. Not only does it provide a healthier evening ritual, it keeps me from pre-dinner snacking.Wanting to create more of a relaxing effect? I like to pour powdered Magnesium (I use this one) into the concoction. Not only does it add a little more sweetness to the sparkling water, Magnesium promotes relaxation and can help ease anxiety. **Consult with your physician before consuming supplements. **

low-sugar cocktail using champagne and la croix
2. Herbal Tea-
If carbonated water isn’t your jam, perhaps herbal teas will do the trick. While there is an herbal tea suitable for any mood you are trying to achieve, I find the very act of holding a hot cup of tea sensual and relaxing. Instead of mindless snacking or drinking while I watch television at night,  I always opt for  a hot cup of herbal tea- one specifically labeled for sleep or relaxation. I particularly love Kava Kava tea (it seriously gives me a relaxing buzz) or Reishi Hot Cacao powder (it tastes like earthy, hot chocolate without the guilt).  **Consult with your physician before consuming any herbal supplements.**

 3. CBD Oil-
On the topic of herbal supplements, cannabidiol (CBD) oil has gained lots of traction in recent years.  While there are many potential health benefits associated with  this plant, anxiety and depression are two health issues which may be effectively treated by CBD oil. If you are self-medicating your anxiety with unhealthy approaches (like excessive alcohol and junk food), CBD may be a better alternative.Curious to see what all of the fuss was about, a few months ago, I purchased a CBD oil vape kit from my local health food store. While I didn’t notice much from it (other than a case of the munchies), I have friends that praise the relaxing effects of this non-psychoactive form of Cannabis (it will not get you high).  If drinking and snacking is more of an oral fixation issue or a means of self-medicating your anxiety or depression, vaping CBD oil may be worth a try.

4. Gum-
Speaking of oral fixations, let’s talk about gum. While I am not much of a gum chewer myself (it gives me a headache), I know many fitness models that swear by the power of gum. Not only does it give your mouth something to do, the flavor can curb cravings and actually make alcohol taste nasty AF.

5. Brushing Your Teeth-
Obviously everyone should be brushing their teeth for good health, but dental hygiene is a legitimate weight loss tactic as well. By brushing my teeth directly after a meal, I am basically shutting down the possibility of any further oral consumption. Whether it be alcoholic beverages or sugary snacks, having a minty-fresh mouth makes it easier to resist temptation.

how to drink less alcohol

6. Distraction-


Instead of allowing temptation to creep in during passive relaxation (watching television, laying out by the pool), try an activity that demands more of your attention and/or motor skills. For some it is knitting, for others it may be crossword puzzles, but for me personally, reading a book is a great means of relaxation and distraction. Unlike binge-watching a Netflix series,  I find it hard to snack or drink when I have both hands on a book.

low-cal cocktail recipe

7. Diluting Alcoholic Beverages-
Although I have committed to living a bone sober life Monday thru Friday, a girl still has to get her drink on every now and then( by every now and then, I mean every freakin’ weekend). One of my favorite ways to drink more mindfully and responsibly is by heavily diluting my cocktails with club soda/sparkling water. (Check out a great example of this method here with my low-sugar Mimosa recipe). By diluting my drinks, I trick myself into believing I have had 4 cocktails, when in reality,  I have only consumed 2.

I hope you were able to take away some helpful trickery from this list.  While I sure as hell don’t believe women should have to endure deprivation for the sake of a flippin bikini, I personally love to know I am striving for my personal best. No…my personal best will never make it to the cover of a Sports Illustrated magazine, but at least I can feel confident in my own skin- mama pooch and all- knowing I am giving it my all.

Now get out there and design some good vibes!

 

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Cindy

Sunday 19th of May 2019

Glad to see you mentioned CBD oil. I started eating CBD gummy bears three weeks ago and have lost 6 lbs. I started on the CBD initially to help me go to sleep. Not only has it helped that problem, but has curbed my appitite and cravings for sweets. I also bought the lotion to rub on my back and hip joints. I felt better about doing all this stuff when my granddaughter, who is a third year pharmacy student, gave her approval. At least the gummies help satisfy my sugar craving.

Designing Vibes

Monday 20th of May 2019

Now you have me wanting to try the gummy bears. haha! I think the brand of cbd I initially tried was not top quality. I will definitely not rule it out altogether. I think I just need to find the right product.

Katie Jones

Saturday 18th of May 2019

Such good stuff Erica! I drink Natural Calm every night and I love herbal teas too. Can’t wait to try all this. I feel skinnier already! ?

Designing Vibes

Sunday 19th of May 2019

haha! Yes, Katie! I am obsessed with the Natural Calm powder (the raspberry is my favorite flavor). Wishing you a fabulous summer.

Laura

Wednesday 15th of May 2019

Always enjoy your blog , thanks for the snacking tips I really need it !

Designing Vibes

Thursday 16th of May 2019

Thank you so much, friend! Gah...why does snacking have to be so much fun? haha

Robin R

Wednesday 15th of May 2019

I really need those pants! Where can I find them? Thank you!!

Designing Vibes

Wednesday 15th of May 2019

They are so comfy, Robin! I got them from Amazon. Here is the affiliate link for them https://rstyle.me/+Dx2suxN3XFlm5lNN5B1CeA

Hope this helps!

Mary-The Boondocks Blog

Wednesday 15th of May 2019

Erica I like the one about brushing your teeth. Unfortunately that would never stop me. And the book can be placed on my lap while there is a bowl of chips nearby. I find the best way to stay away from food is to go to work. That keeps me so busy I don't have time to snack. Good luck and don't ever lose your sense of humor.

Designing Vibes

Wednesday 15th of May 2019

haha! I admit...there have been a few times when the brushing teeth method failed me, but I am surprised at how many times it has actually helped curb cravings. I am glad to know you "get" my sense of humor. Thanks for always being so sweet and supportive, friend.

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