Tackling cravings

Cravings happen! The key is not to fight them but to find better alternatives that satisfy you while keeping you on track. This activity will help you identify your top cravings and explore whole food plant-based (WFPB) alternatives to swap in when those cravings hit.

Step 1: List your most common cravings

Think about the ‘unhealthy’ foods you find yourself craving and sometimes giving in to. These could be sweet, salty, fried, or processed snacks and meals.

Exercise

• Write down at least five foods, snacks or meals you crave most often that are considered unhealthy.

Step 2: Find a healthier alternative for each

Now, for each craving, look for a whole food plant-based alternative that could satisfy the same flavour or texture in a healthier way.

Refer back to the ‘Tackling cravings and making healthier choices’ lesson for ideas, or do a quick internet search for specific recipes. Try searching: ‘Whole food plant-based version of [your craving]’

Exercise

• Jot down or save recipes of healthier alternatives for each thing on your craving list.

Step 3: Try one alternative this week

Pick one of the healthier alternatives from your list and test it out this week.

Step 4: Reflection

After trying your alternative snack or meal, ask yourself:

• Did it satisfy your craving?
• Would you make it again?
• Would you tweak anything next time?
• Any other notes?

Final thought

Cravings don’t have to derail progress! By having better alternatives ready, you can enjoy foods you love without feeling deprived. Keep experimenting with healthier swaps until you find options that truly work for you.