By Melissa Williams

Every afternoon I find myself craving a warm chai. And while my chai is certainly healthier than say, a drive to McDonalds, I also know that I don’t necessarily “need it” either.

According to researchers, snacking is a habit. And if you do it often enough, your body will think you need it. Cookies at three? A latte at 2? So what can you do to break the stress-eating cycle?

• Try a new option. Go to a yoga class at lunch and see if it changes your “needs” for the rest of the day. Don’t have time for a yoga class? Try getting a 10 minute walk in, right when you usually have your craving.
  
  
• Plan well. Instead of planning to NOT snack, bring yourself your only option. So when your hunger seems to strike you won’t be able to go grab a candy bar. Your snack will be at the ready, and if you’re truly hungry you’ll go for it. If not, you’ll skip the snack for the day.
  
  
• If you’re in need of a mood boost, try boosting it earlier in the day with omega-3s. Add salmon, almonds, sardines, or flax to your lunch. And be sure to take your omega-3s each day. We love Nordic Naturals for their non-fishy taste.
  
  
• Give in. I love cookies. Decide what you love and let yourself have it on a certain day each week. Or maybe twice.