3 Ways to Identify & Decode Cravings
Cravings are a blessing.
It’s the way our body maintains homeostasis.
When you are craving something, it’s an opportunity to become more mindful and intuitive with yourself. Cravings are the way the body attempts to maintain nutrient balance. They are also a great way to become intuitive with your body for what “it” needs.
Cravings pop up for a variety of different reasons—and although it can be psychological (emotional eating, reward, pleasure), there can also be some hormonal deficiencies playing a role in the background to be aware of as well.
I wanted to give a brief update on common cravings and what they mean:
Hamburger: Low Iron
Pasta: Poor Mood
Ice Cream: Your Body Needs Healthy Fat
Candy: Low Energy Levels
Chocolate: Need Magnesium
Salt: Dehydration, Increase Water Intake
take-away’s:
1. Cravings are a signal to the body to become more in sync with what we actually need. Keep in mind what you are craving and when.
2. Look at your own cravings and be intuitive to what your body is trying to tell you. Maybe you crave ice cream after a long work week where you were “burned out”? Maybe, it’s a sign you need to pull some eggs from one basket and put them in your “self-care” basket.
3. Look at your primary foods (relationships, career, physical activity, spiritual health) and see where you’re strong and what needs work. Then look to see where you can create more balance in your life. A lot of times, emotional eaters will have cravings pop up when they are not actually hungry. Look at what else is going on in life and adjust where needed.
The best rule of thumb for debunking cravings is the OG, water. As well as eating a healthy diet with real food. And don’t be afraid to do your own research! There is no one else who has your body makeup. Consistent intake of healthy foods will lead your body to recognize a pattern and habitually crave healthier meals. I invite you to explore yourself and what you need when so that you have the tools to feel and live your best life.