You know that feeling! You’ve just finished a meal, but you’re still craving that bag of chips in your pantry. Or maybe you’ve been trying to stick to your diet all day, but suddenly you find yourself raiding the fridge for something sweet.
What if I told you that those cravings could actually be trying to tell you something?
That’s right: food cravings aren’t just a pesky inconvenience. They’re actually your body’s way of communicating with you.
In this blog, we’re going to explore what your cravings might mean, and tips for how to combat them — the healthy way. So, here are 6 Reasons Why You Might Have Pesky Food Cravings:
1. Your Hormones are Unbalanced
Fluctuations in hormones can also trigger food cravings. For example, many women experience cravings for sweet foods during their menstrual cycle due to changes in estrogen and progesterone levels.
Tip: Eat more foods that are rich in magnesium, like avocado, dark chocolate and legumes. Or you can take a supplement formulated with a blend of natural ingredients, including magnesium, to help balance hormones and reduce PMS symptoms like sugar cravings, mood swings and bloating.
2. You’re Deficient in Nutrients
If your body is lacking in certain nutrients, you may experience cravings for foods that are rich in those nutrients. For example, if you’re not getting enough iron, you may crave red meat or leafy greens. If you’re not getting enough magnesium, you may crave chocolate.
Tip: Incorporate more nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, berries and whole grains in your diet. And you can always supplement with a complete multivitamin to fill any nutrient gaps.
3. You’re Dehydrated
Believe it or not, thirst is often mistaken for hunger. So if you find yourself craving something salty or savoury, it might be because your body is actually in need of fluids. Try drinking a glass of water before you give in to your craving, and see if that helps. Also, try to incorporate other hydrating beverages (like herbal tea or coconut water) into your routine.
Tip: Keep a water bottle with you at all times and sip from it regularly throughout the day.
4. You’re Not Eating Enough Protein
Protein is essential for staying full and satisfied on top of many other things. If you’re not getting enough, your body might be urging you to seek out more food. If you’re consistently restricting your calories too much, your body will start to rebel by sending you strong signals to eat more.
Tip: Add more protein-rich foods like eggs, chicken and fish to your meals. You can also try a protein powder for a healthy snack or if you’re on the go.
5. You’re Not Getting Enough Sleep
Lack of sleep can wreak havoc on your body, and one of the ways it can manifest is through food cravings. When you’re tired, your body produces more of the hormone ghrelin, which stimulates hunger. So if you’re craving something sweet or carb-heavy, it might be because you’re not getting enough rest.
Tip: Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night. If you have trouble falling and staying asleep, you should consider a natural nighttime sleep aid.
6. You’re Stressed
Stress is another common trigger for food cravings. Many people turn to food as a way to cope with difficult emotions. When you’re under stress, your body releases the hormone cortisol, which can increase your appetite and make you crave high-carb, high-fat foods.
Tip: Find healthy ways to manage your stress: exercise, meditation, talking to a friend — even practising gratitude works. And MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF! You’re worth it!
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