Eat Your Way to More Willpower!

Yes, that is right! Eat!

Research shows a lack of willpower, or self-control, is directly related to glucose depletion. While glucose itself does not enter the brain it does get converted into neurotransmitters that play a role in how you behave, feel, learn, and sleep. The more mental energy you use the less self-control and willpower you will have.

When our brains are depleted of glucose, some parts of the brain shut down and different parts become more active. This is why our behavior often changes when we are energy depleted. Think about it. When you are exhausted and hungry it is much harder to pass up your favorite treat then when you are well rested and well fed.

What does this mean in practical terms of helping you reach your goals?

Timing is key. If you are trying to engage in a new habit practice your behaviors at a time of day when you are likely to have more energy and have lower levels of stress.
Recognize and modify your triggers. If you normally grab a candy bar as you walk by the vending machine on your way out of work, try changing the route that you take when you leave or try eating a healthy afternoon snack to keep yourself properly fueled. The idea is not to put yourself in a vulnerable position in the first place.
If you find that you are struggling to maintain a new habit look a little closer at the obstacles that are getting in your way. Are you trying to prepare your healthy lunch for work tomorrow after a 10 hour work day, helping your kids with their homework, and after doing dishes and folding laundry?
Develop strategies to form new habits when you are most likely to follow through with your goals. You might be more successful preparing lunches for the workweek on Sunday or making extra for weekday dinners and popping leftovers into a to go container.

The next time you catch yourself saying “I just don’t have the willpower” look at the situation a little more deeply. Make a note of what was going on at that time. Ask yourself what you can do differently next time. You may find with a little fine tuning you have more willpower than you thought!