Snacking seems to be a problem many Americans share. There are many reasons why we snack; boredom, stress, impulse and anxiety. Most people find themselves thoughtlessly snacking while using the computer or watching television. The good news is there are ways to stop snacking that are easy to implement and can change the way you eat. Here are some great tips to stop snacking today, get your weight under control and learn to watch the empty calories you consume every day.

Many people snack because junk foods are easy to grab from the kitchen and require no fuss. A great way to stop snacking is to have healthy foods stocked in your home in preparation for a snack attack. Remove all junk food from the home or keep it away from an easy access area. Next, prepare fresh vegetables, cheeses, crackers, fruit and even pita bread in a way that encourages you to grab it. You can make a vegetable tray to keep in the fridge or create individual serving sizes of health foods in snack bags. This is a great way to prevent empty snacking.

Other people find ways around snacking that can be even easier. Try chewing sugar-free gum and drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Gum is proven to satisfy your urge to eat and water fills you up. Plus, who doesn't enjoy gum? If you really want to stop snacking but you're afraid you don't have the willpower this method helps take away the urge to eat completely.

You can also try distracting yourself to prevent snacking. This can include anything from exercising or cleaning up the house to talking to a good friend on the phone. Because most snacking occurs when you're bored and have nothing else to do it's a great idea to create something entertaining to distract you. You may even find that crafts or painting can distract from the need to snack while allowing you to channel your energy into something fun and creative.

Remember, most people struggle to overcome the compulsion to snack throughout the day. The good news is it's possible and doesn't have to be unpleasant. Keep telling yourself that snacking serves no purpose if it only comes from stress and boredom. If you do snack, make sure it's something that's good for you and serves a nutritional purpose, such as whole, unprocessed foods. You can even begin a food journal to help yourself see just how much you thoughtlessly snack all day. Whatever method you try keep in mind that it's difficult to stop snacking and may take a few weeks to master. Don't be hard on yourself but don't give up, either. With a little effort you can be on your way to a healthier lifestyle.