Addiction to instant noodles can be overcome with these 6 surefire tricks

The distinctive taste and practical way of cooking are the main attraction for instant noodle lovers. However, be careful if you are addicted to instant noodles. The reason is, if consumed in excess, instant noodles are very risky for health.

The problem is that many people have a hard time breaking away from instant noodles. Eits, that doesn't mean it's impossible to do, you know. Here are six tips for overcoming instant noodle addiction that you can apply.

You are already addicted to instant noodles

Before getting to the root of the problem, try checking for the signs below. If the following conditions suit your situation, it means you are addicted to instant noodles.

Often there is the desire to eat instant noodles even though you have already eaten and are not hungry.
When you finally eat instant noodles, you overeat. For example, up to two or more servings.
Feeling guilty after eating instant noodles, but will keep eating again whenever the opportunity arises.
Finding excuses to eat instant noodles.
Trying to cover up this addiction from other people, for example from parents or spouses.
Not being able to control yourself even though you know (or have felt) the dangers of eating too much noodles, for example gaining weight.

How to stop or reduce eating instant noodles

If you experience at least three or four signs of addiction above, it means you have to start taking steps to reduce consumption of instant noodles. In order not to get confused where to start, pay attention to the following guidelines.

1. Don't stop right away

You are wrong if you immediately try to stop eating instant noodles altogether. Instead of working, this method will actually make you crave even more. So, start reducing the frequency of eating instant noodles slowly.

For example, you eat noodles almost every day. Try to limit the frequency to twice a week. After successful, reduce it again to once a week. Continue until you are able to restrain yourself when the urge to eat noodles arises.

2. Replace noodle seasoning with natural spices

What makes instant noodles that way collect is the savory taste. Modern human tongues have evolved to be easily addicted to strong food flavors, such as salty, sweet, and spicy. So one way to stop the addiction to instant noodles is to change the taste.

When eating noodles, discard instant spices and replace them with natural spices. Garlic, pepper, leeks, salt, chilies, and coriander can be your choice. Over time, the tongue will become more and more accustomed to these natural flavors.

3. Add healthy foods such as real vegetables or chicken

To make the transition from instant noodles to other healthy foods easier, mix your favorite instant noodles with healthy foods. Add the mustard greens, carrots, bok choy, kale, or broccoli. Instead of eating instant noodles with factory-processed meatballs, you should add real chicken or beef. You will also get used to eating healthy foods and start leaving instant noodles with very minimal nutrition.

4. Do not store instant noodles at home

It will be easier for you to be tempted to eat noodles if you have some at home. So, don't buy more than one pack of instant noodles. Cravings usually go away on their own after a while or when you eat other foods.

If you still feel the urge to eat noodles, walk to the nearest shop. Apart from the fact that walking nourishes the body, this trick will also buy you time so that the cravings go away on their own. You may also be very thirsty. You'll also drink a lot of water and be full before you can buy the noodles.

5. Learn to cook

Some people are addicted to instant noodles because they are so easy to prepare. Especially if you are hungry. To change this habit, learn to cook. Ranging from simple dishes like omelettes to complex ones like soup. If you can cook, you'll be more creative and won't choose instant noodles when you're hungry.

6. Ask for help from others

If all the means have been taken but have not succeeded, you need help from others. Ask the closest people such as your spouse or closest friend to provide support, one of which is by not eating instant noodles when you are with you. If it is very severe, you can also see a psychologist or therapist who can help you overcome your addiction.