Although it is not an official, scientific term, “Food Noise” is now more commonly used by those struggling with weight maintenance. It is the unwanted, relentless preoccupation of 
thinking about food. This is different from thinking about what you may need to prepare and shop for or just being of Italian descent. Many frustrated with restrictive dieting, weight cycling, or deprivation have turned to GLP-1 drugs for diabetes and weight loss. Some have reported that when using these drugs, the “Food Noise” in their heads has finally stopped. These drugs, however, require long term use and do not work for everyone. If you are not comfortable taking drugs, here are some lifestyle suggestions some have found useful. Setting a schedule in which you have regular, balanced meals can help deter urges for unhealthy options. A scheduled meal plan which contains healthy protein and fiber takes more time to digest, prolongs hunger and can lower anxiety about food. Enjoy your meal! Sit, turn off all devices and try not to drink while eating so you are chewing your food correctly. It takes at least 20 minutes for hormones to reach the brain and relate a feeling of fullness. Try making sleep and exercise a priority and part of a regular schedule. Exhaustion increases stress which in turn increases cortisol. This hormone boosts appetite. Food Noise is by no means easy to quiet and there is no set solution for everyone. Be open about it and discuss it with professionals. It may be that nutrition, exercise, sleep, and behavioral counseling can help with overcoming Food Noise.