Think your diet will derail after a tough work week? Not if your habits have a say. Customs trump cravings during times of stress, finds new research from UCLA.
Scientists offered stressed-out students both nutritious fare (like fruit) and not-so-great snacks (like cookies), then asked the students how often they ate those foods during a normal week when they weren’t cramming for exams. The results: In crunch time, the students still picked their most habitual snacks, regardless of healthiness.
What that means: Even at times of peak stress, when you expect willpower to crumble (and indulgence to be at an all-time-high), you go with what you’re used to. That’s why eating right and exercising “are real investments when times are stress-free,” says lead researcher David Neal, Ph.D.
In other words, your healthy habits pay off when your self-control is low. That’s great news if you already opt for a handful of almonds over a Snickers bar, but it takes a little more time and practice to break out of a bad pattern.
To develop a new routine, pick just one thing at a time and stay consistent, Neal advises. Want to be a regular at the gym? Going at the same time 3 days a week will help you hone your habit more than showing up 5 days at different hours, says Neal. Click here for more advice on how to break your bad habits.
If you liked this, you’ll love these:
- Why You Eat When You’re Stressed
- 3 Ways to Curb Your Late-Night Cravings
- The Crazy Trick to Boost Your Willpower
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