Retrain your brain to decrease those unwanted cravings with these 6 tips. If your food choices disappoint your tastebuds, you’re more likely to resort to an unhealthy sweet treat to make up for feeling deprived. Here’s how you can reduce those hunger pangs. 1. Choose low-GI foods “Foods with a lower glycaemic index (GI) of 55 or less are more slowly digested, absorbed and metabolised and cause a lower and slower rise in blood glucose and insulin levels,” says Melanie McGrice , accredited dietitian and director of Nutrition Plus clinics in Melbourne. “Low-GI foods also help you feel more sated after a meal and reduce risk of weight gain and conditions like diabetes.” Every day, aim to eat five serves or more of fresh vegetables and two of fruit plus wholegrains and some lean protein at every meal. 2. ‘Healthify’ takeaway meals with homecooked makeovers Prepare homemade burgers with wholemeal buns and stacks of salad vegetables. Make fish and chips but grill the fish and ...