The most common causes of stomach stretching and weight gain after surgery include eating when you are not yet hungry; snacking between meals; or drinking alcohol, sugary juices, and carbonated drinks. How To Handle Cravings Everyone has cravings. They don’t come from an empty stomach, but from the part of your brain related to memory and pleasure. They are not a sign you are hungry. The good news is cravings don’t last. Driven by emotions or stress-related factors, they pass with time and we can use that fact to resist them. Here are some tips to help you overcome your cravings: • Pay attention to your triggers. If they are emotional or stress related, allow the emotion or anxiety to pass. • If you see the craved food on TV or in a movie, change the channel or fast forward. • Distract yourself. Engage in an activity such as calling a friend, playing a game, cleaning, or doing some stretches. The new activity will help take your mind off food. • Exercise regularly. Exercise changes your brain’s response to food. It reduces stress and improves sleep, which also helps reduce cravings • If you crave something sweet, pick something healthy. Fruits and vegetables make great snacks. • Remember to always check nutrition labels to avoid unhealthy substances and empty, non-nutritious calories.
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