Make Peace with Food

The Food Craving Solution Blog Has Moved

2010-07-28T08:41:00.001-07:00

I've moved my Blog: Make Peace with Food & The Food Craving Solution Blog. Please visit my new site here

Albert Einstein and Compassion

2009-08-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

Quote by Albert Einstein

I came across the quote below, liked it and wanted to share it with you. I knew Einstein was brilliant, but I didn't know how far reaching his wisdom stretched.

I think modern western science is slowly catching up to the idea that we are all part of a greater whole. Asian cultures already know this to be true and this is one of the many reasons I went to study Chinese Medicine.

With this system, the whole and the parts are looked at holistically. The medicine was developed by observing the relationship between man and nature. We can learn a lot from nature and obviously from Einstein.

So, here's the quote:

"A human being is a part of a whole, called by us 'universe', a part
limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and
feelings as something separated from the rest... a kind of optical
delusion of his consciousness. This delusion is a kind of prison for
us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few
persons nearest to us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this
prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living
creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty."

- Albert Einstein

And, I don't know this for sure, but when he wrote about widening the circle of compassion, I think he was including each one of us. Sometimes, it's easier to be compassionate to others rather than ourselves.

How will you be compassionate to yourself today?

I'm going to go for a nice walk in nature...How about you? I'd like to know.

Be well!

Kara

Kara Sorensen, MS, LAc

The Food Craving Solution
video: http://tinyurl.com/d4gz9a
email: kara@thefoodcravingsolution.com
blog: http://blog.thefoodcravingsolution.com
Web: http://thefoodcravingsolution.com

Do You Think I'm Fat? Girls and Body Image

2009-04-15T05:58:00.000-07:00

Please watch this video about young girls asking the question:

Do you think I'm Fat?

Please comment below.

What do you see as a solution for this?

What message are we sending and how can the message change?

How can we prevent future generations of girls falling into Eating Disorders?

How can we serve those already struggling with Eating Disorders?

How can we support healthy Body Image, Self Esteem and Body Esteem in girls?

Kara Sorensen, MS, LAc

The Food Craving Solution
video: http://tinyurl.com/d4gz9a
email: kara@thefoodcravingsolution.com
blog: http://blog.thefoodcravingsolution.com
Web: http://thefoodcravingsolution.com

More Food with Friends...A Picnic at the Beach

2009-04-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

Picnic at the Beach

Today, I went to the beach for a picnic with my good friend Amanda, her husband and her Dad. Amanda is a fantastic Acupuncturist and you can find out more about her here:

We hiked out to Tennessee Valley Beach, and I took photos (on my iphone) of the poppies, lupin and a few wild turkeys along the way. We ate our sandwiches (and I drank my homemade kombucha) while talking and looking out towards the waves. Such an enjoyable day at the beach with t-shirt weather on the N. California coast! We talked about a lot of things, and laughed, but because two of us our health practitioners, we ended up talking about wheat free diets and gluten. What a surprise! There are so many options nowadays for food when one has food allergies, but mostly, we just enjoyed our food choices and the sunshine.

So, I highly recommend picnics with friends and loved one's, it's just good for the Soul. Reconnecting with nature, getting away from routine, it's all good. So, when was the last time you went out for a spontaneous picnic? Where do you like to go for picnics? What are your favorite foods to bring? I'd love to hear from you, please leave a comment.

Kara

Kara Sorensen, MS, LAc

The Food Craving Solution
video: http://tinyurl.com/d4gz9a
email: kara@thefoodcravingsolution.com
blog: http://blog.thefoodcravingsolution.com
Web: http://thefoodcravingsolution.com

Sharing Food with Friends....it's what I Crave

2009-04-10T10:35:00.000-07:00

Sharing Food with Friends

Today is a day of sharing food. For lunch, I'm meeting with a group of colleagues at the Ward Street Cafe.

For dinner, I'm going top visit my good friend at her home in Menlo Park. We're celebrating her birthday, which is on the 14th. Just 5 years ago, she went into labor on the eve of her birthday. This is a special day for her and her family. I'm looking forward to spending time with them and sharing food with them.

After all, good food shared with good company is hard to beat. That's what I crave. She'll be preparing traditional Persian food, which is such a treat. Yum! These are the moments to savor in life...laughing, good conversation, sharing, savoring flavors, etc. Whenever I can, I share meals with friends or family. It's nice to eat in quiet sometimes too, but given the choice, I'll pick a full table, with food cooked with love....it just tastes better. It even improves digestion, all those good feelings.

How about you? What are your shared meals like? How do they make you feel? What do you crave?

Kara Sorensen, MS, LAc

The Food Craving Solution
video: http://tinyurl.com/d4gz9a
email: kara@thefoodcravingsolution.com
blog: http://blog.thefoodcravingsolution.com
Web: http://thefoodcravingsolution.com

Dark vs. Milk Chocolate. Which One Reduced Food Cravings?

2009-01-06T20:37:00.000-08:00

Dark chocolate lovers read on, I think you're going to like this one!

Here is a news clip from a study that looked at the difference between dark chocolate and milk chocolate with regards to subsequent food cravings:

'New research at the Faculty of Life Sciences (LIFE) at the University of Copenhagen – shows that dark chocolate is far more filling than milk chocolate, lessening our craving for sweet, salty and fatty foods. In other words, eating dark chocolate may be an efficient way to keep your weight down...'

The study compared how much pizza participants would voluntarily eat after previously eating dark chocolate versus milk chocolate. The report can be found here, but let's cut to the chase.... here are the results:

'The results were significant. The calorie intake at the subsequent meal where they could eat as much pizza as they liked was 15 per cent lower when they had eaten dark chocolate beforehand. The participants also stated that the plain chocolate made them feel less like eating sweet, salty or fatty foods.'

So there you have it! It makes sense to me when comparing the difference between dark and milk chocolate. I have some theories about why there is a difference, but I want to hear your thoughts. What do you think the difference is? Please leave your comments below!

Do remember that this was a comparison between dark and milk chocolate. I wouldn't go out and start eating chocolate just to reduce food cravings. If it's on your list of things to eat, enjoy it in moderation and know that dark chocolate has some health benefits.*

If you do want to enjoy chocolate, go for the least processed (raw is best), organic, fair trade chocolate that is sweetened with 'less refined' sugars, and without artificial fillers or additives. You can taste the difference!

Remember, if you've got a concern about chocolate because you:

1-Eat too much

2-Eat it too often
3-Are concerned you'll eat too much
4-Feel guilty about eating it

...then give me a call. I can help you let go of all of that, and help put you back in charge so you can enjoy chocolate, or not, it's your choice.

How would it feel to be totally in charge with chocolate?

kara@thefoodcravingsolution.com
www.thefoodcravingsolution.com

*As with any other food, if you have a health condition that requires that you avoid chocolate, please follow your Physician's advice.

What if my Food Cravings are REALLY strong?

2008-12-29T11:00:00.000-08:00

My Food Cravings are really strong, can you help with this?

Before booking a Food Craving session with a patient, I ask them specific questions. I want to make sure their cravings are strong enough to benefit from my technique. I ask them to rate the intensity of their Food Cravings on a scale of 1-10, (1 being, 'it's not a problem' and 10 being, 'they're really intense'). If someone replies 8, 9 or 10, my reply is often GOOD! It's not good that they have a craving, but good, because I know I can help them! I know that relief is right around the corner for them, and that's exciting. If the cravings are not very strong, I may suggest acupuncture, dietary changes and/or a supplement to help them find relief.

Strong Craving=Better Results with Treatment?

What? You read that correctly, the stronger and more specific the craving, the better the results are with my technique. At least that's what I've found in my practice. The worse the symptom, the more effective the treatment? How often do you hear that?

The Solution to Food Cravings

How would it feel to bring that Food Craving from 9 or 10 to a 1 or 2? It happens all the time. If you are someone that has strong Food Cravings, and you'd like to leave them behind, I invite you to email me for more information. If you are a health practitioner, and you'd like more information for your patients, I'd like to hear from you as well.

Kara@TheFoodCravingSolution.com
www.TheFoodCravingSolution.com

Are You Surrounded By Holiday Treats?

2008-12-10T08:44:00.001-08:00

We're in the midst of the ongoing 'Holiday Food Fest.' I hope you are enjoying the season! How are you doing with parties and food so far? Are you surrounded by treats at work and/or at home? Do you walk past the bowl full of goodies, or do you grab just one and enjoy it? Or, do you grab more than you'd like and regret it later?

If it's the latter you experience, please know that you could be enjoying the holidays more than you are presently. When YOU are in control of your eating, you can enjoy treats because you are in charge. You can also choose to skip the treats. When you're in charge, it's your choice.

But, what if choice is replaced by a habit that doesn't serve you anymore? That's where I can help if you're looking for solutions. I can help you change your habits quickly and easily, so you can enjoy the holidays, and the foods of the season (or not) without stress. It doesn't take willpower, or require a change in your diet, those follow naturally. It can happen effortlessly by following a few simple steps, that help unwind unwanted habits that no longer serve you.

The Holidays are a time of JOY as well as stress. Why not tip the balance towards more JOY and less stress around food this season? Give yourself the gift of choice that lasts and lasts. A food craving session can help put you in charge of your eating, and the benefits are enduring for seasons to come. Happy Holidays!

kara@thfoodcravingsolution.com

www.thefoodcravingsolution.com

Are My Food Cravings a Problem?

2008-11-17T10:32:00.001-08:00

How do I know if my Food Cravings are a Problem?

Some food cravings are not a problem. How does one know the difference when it comes to food cravings?

Various studies estimate that roughly 90% of the U.S. population experiences food cravings, and cravings are more common in those that diet. However, not all food cravings are problematic. The only person that knows if it's a problem is YOU. Here are some things to ask yourself:

Do I have a hard time stopping once I start eating certain foods?
Do I have to keep certain foods out of my house, so I don't overeat?
Do I think too much about eating or not eating?
Do I try to eat well, and end up giving into my cravings anyways?
Do I wish I had more willpower with certain foods?
Do I feel bad about myself when I overeat?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, you may be in store for some more peace and ease with food. So, what kind of cravings are not problematic?

Those that don't negatively impact your health and well-being.

Here are two examples:

A friend of mine who is very athletic craves pasta. This craving doesn't bother him, as he enjoys eating pasta and figures he'll burn it off and needs the carbohydrate fuel. If he stopped exercising, didn't reduce his intake, and started gaining weight, this may start to be a problem. Currently, it does not bother him.
Another example is, I have a desire for chocolate every so often. When this happens, I can decide if I want some or not. I'm able to pass on it without a problem if there's no chocolate around. I don't have to drive to the store if I don't have any. If I eat some, I enjoy it, it's easy to stop, and I'm not compelled to overdo. This craving is not a problem for me.

So, I encourage you to ask yourself if you have cravings that bother you? Or, are you happy with the way you eat and behave around food? I hope it's the latter. However, if your cravings bother you, please contact me. I use a technique that can bring you quick relief from your food cravings.

Thanks for reading!

Kara@TheFoodCravingSolution.com
www.TheFoodCravingSolution.com

What is a Food Craving? What can be done for them?

2008-11-12T07:59:00.001-08:00

What is a Food Craving?

I am often asked this question. When I offer a description, most people can relate to it, because Food Cravings are so common.

Here's a definition of Food Cravings from Wikipedia:

'A food craving is an intense desire to consume a particular food, as opposed to food in general. Food cravings are especially common in people following structured diet plans, and often interfere with the best of intentions to adhere to a particular style of eating.'

Commonly, along with that intense desire is an internal struggle that some people find very distracting. This can be felt mentally, physically, or both and can exist regardless of whether or not the craving is satisfied. If the food is avoided, thoughts about the food can continue on for hours. If the craving is indulged, feelings of regret and guilt can ensue. Some of my patients have described this as a battle, and it's a battle they don't see winning.

What can be done for Food Cravings?

This is the question I don't get asked very often, as most people think that they just have to live with this. What if that battle could end and be replaced by a sense of peace and satisfaction? I've seen it happen many times, with a few simple steps. What if the cycle of craving could change quickly, and the treatment didn't require repeating? Giving up a Food Craving doesn't mean giving up a favorite food or the enjoyment of it, just the craving.

If you'd like more information on how I help my patients let go of their Food Cravings, please contact me, I would enjoy hearing from you!

kara@thefoodcravingsolution.com

www.thefoodcravingsolution.com

Food Craving Sessions Can Be Done Over the Phone? What?

2008-11-12T05:58:00.001-08:00

Yes, Food Craving Sessions Can Be Done Over The Phone!

People are often surprised when I tell them that I can help them with their Food Cravings over the phone. I simply teach you some simple steps and guide you through the process over the phone.

This method is designed to target and eliminate our food cravings at their source. It's the best thing I've found (20 years in Nutrition), to positively change our food habits. Please believe me when I tell you that I have tried everything!

Here is a testimonial from someone that did her single session over the phone.

In one 30 minute phone session, I have effortlessly conquered my previous addiction to empty carbs!

Naomi Colb
Life Coach
San Francisco, CA

Please note that this is unusual, as most sessions take one hour. Naomi used the word 'effortlessly' in regards to conquering her previous 'addiction.' The process is so easy, no effort is needed, just a desire for change. It just requires following a few simple steps. I will guide you through the process, and at the end, you will feel different about your previously craved food. Your behavior will change and the results are lasting.

Please contact me if you would like more information about this simple and effective process. And, like I said, sessions can be done in person or over the phone.

How could just one hour forever change your LIFE?

Kara@TheFoodCravingSolution.com
www.TheFoodCravingSolution.com

How Do I Know if I Have a Food Craving?

2008-11-10T11:58:00.001-08:00

Food Cravings are very common, so common in fact, that many of us think they're normal and we just have to put up with them. A food craving becomes a problem when it bothers us, and when we're not in control.

For example, I crave tea, but it doesn't bother me, as I drink it once a day, enjoy it, and am easily able to stop at one cup. I have had patients that craved tea and would drink it all day long. They felt wired, and it was a real problem for them before they came to see me. See the difference?

Ask yourself, 'Am I in charge of my eating, or is the food I crave more in charge? How is this affecting my peace of mind or body?'

Here are some common signs of food cravings. If you answer YES to any of these, you may be able to find more peace with food than you're currently experiencing:

Do you think about specific foods you'd like to eat when you are not truly hungry?
Do you have specific cravings, that bother you, like sweets, chocolate or starches?
If you eat the craved food, are you left feeling less than happy with yourself?
If you avoid the craved food, do you still think about it or have to distract yourself?
Do you have little or no control over your behavior when you have a craving for a specific food?

Food cravings are so prevalent, but they don't have to be. I have worked with many patients and helped them be free of their food cravings. Most often 1-2 sessions is all that is needed.

Being in charge of your eating is such a good feeling. Once you feel that feeling, you'll wonder how you tolerated food cravings.

How would it feel to be in charge of your eating? And remember, you don't have to give up your craved food, just the craving!

Kara@TheFoodCravingSolution.com
www.TheFoodCravingSolution.com

Trick or Treat?

2008-10-31T11:47:00.000-07:00

It's Halloween! Will you be tempted by candy? What if you could be around candy and not be tempted? Sound Scary? Too good to be true? Well, it's not. I have some tricks of my own.

If you don't enjoy Halloween because of the candy that surrounds you, please call me on Monday. If we have a session in the next couple of weeks, you can sail through Thanksgiving without food cravings. How does that sound? How would you like to be in control with candy?

Kara@TheFoodCravingSolution.com

www.TheFoodCravingSolution.com

Do You Crave Coffee, but Suffer When You Drink it?

2008-10-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

Do You Have a Love / Hate Relationship with Coffee?

The love of coffee is universal. But, not everyone can tolerate it. So what do you do if you love coffee, but hate how it makes you feel?

I recently worked with a patient that had a long history of cravings for coffee. She came in for a session, and this is what she said two weeks later.....

'I had a session with Kara Sorensen regarding my cravings for coffee. I have craved coffee for over twenty years and for a period of time I drank it every day. However, I got headaches in the middle of the night and even though coffee took away the headache the next morning, it was uncomfortable to wake up with a headache. For that reason, I stopped drinking coffee several years ago, but the craving never ceased. I wanted coffee every day of my life.

Kara assisted me regarding this craving. At the end of an hour, I was clear of the conflict and realized this went way back to my religious upbringing. Now, I'm able to drink coffee or leave it, as the emotional charge is gone. I feel so relieved!

--Phyllis
Psychotherapist
San Francisco, CA

If you have a love / hate relationship with coffee, and would like to change that, please contact me. I can help you!

Kara@TheFoodCravingSolution.com
www.TheFoodCravingSolution.com

Are You 'Hangry'?

2008-10-10T06:28:00.000-07:00

That's Right, Are You 'Hangry'?

I can't take credit for this word, but it does describe something very well. My sister mentioned it on a walk one day, and I knew exactly what she meant. If you haven't figured it out, it's a combination of being hungry and angry. This is a common problem, in men and women alike. It's often noticed by wives of unsuspecting husbands, but is not limited to men. When our blood sugars drop, we are not only more likely to feel hungry, it can also affect our mood. Some people feel weak, some people feel afraid, and others feel angry. Which one, if any, troubles you?

So, like I wrote in 'Avoiding the Four Pitfalls of Overeating' ask yourself, do I have a tendency to get angry when I'm hungry. Hungry and angry are a dangerous combination. Nobody likes that feeling of hypoglycemia where you need to eat something and eat it now! The choices you make in this situation, are out of desperation and may not reflect your best choices. This is our survival mechanism kicking in, and that's a good thing! It just doesn't always serve us so well. So, if you'd like to avoid getting to the stage of 'HANGRY', here are some really simple tips:

1-Monitor your emotions before they get away from you. Pay attention to your level of frustration and check in with yourself during the day and ask, simply, How am I feeling? What do I need, if anything? What sort of action might I need to take? Just asking these questions can help dissipate pent up emotion, because you're giving attention to it. We can find insight, and a new direction. We all have stress in our lives, but it doesn't have to spin out of control.

2-Make sure you have some healthy snacks available so your blood sugar doesn't suddenly drop. There are other tips to keep your blood sugar more even, but that's a whole other post. Simply, making sure you have the right combination of protein, fat and complex carbohydrates in your meals will help. Avoiding simple sugars will also help.

So, put the 'Hangry's' behind you!

If getting 'Hangry' is getting you down, there are solutions. Give me a call, and I'll tell you if I can help. Phone consultations are always free.

email: Kara@TheFoodCravingSolution.com
www.TheFoodCravingSolution.com