So I started my quest about the personal question of, ‘why do we women always seem to crave chocolate more than men. Is it a physical or psychological craving?’ I’m happy to say it’s a physical craving that we need! Yes we need the chocolate, don’t get me wrong and eat a lot of the wrong kind of chocolate, eat a bit of dark chocolate and your mood will slightly improve.
Craving food when you are really not hungry: usually is in indication that your body is dehydrated. Long term dehydration easily turns to hunger. Also don’t forget that psychological (emotional eating) may be occurring, causing you to think you are hungry when you are actually thirsty.
Solution: Drink water, if you don’t like to drink water, flavor it with a drop of lemon or Orange organic edible quality of essential oils.
Chocolate: "One of the main reasons you crave chocolate is because your body is low in serotonin," says Dr. Brantley. "Serotonin is a calming neurotransmitter that makes people feel relaxed and satisfied, and one that is essential for a well-balanced mood.
Solution: eat more Nuts or Dark chocolate with less or no sugar.
Salt: “Your salt craving is actually a craving for those missing minerals, nutrients, and water," Dr. Brantley says. The mineral imbalance or craving of salt can also be an attribute to dehydration problems.
Solution: Use more sea salt which contains minerals and isotopes that your body might be lacking. Also foods high in sodium and minerals like celery, kelp and seaweed.
Breads & Pasta: the craving of carbs usually is related with low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia. This is usually caused be going long periods of time without eating.
Solution: Keep your blood sugar balanced by eating more frequently balance small meals. Also by focusing on good carbs like whole grain and oats, you will feel full & keep blood sugar balances. Also make sure you snacks include protein and either fruit or vegetables, to keep balanced.
Spicy Food: Your body might be craving spice in order to create internal heat (increased blood pressure) in order to eventually create a sweat to cool the body down. This especially happens when you are coming down with a cold and lack vitamin C.
Solution: Increase your vitamin C intake and adding a bit or metabolic activity might increase the airway to your lungs.
Most importantly remember to listen to your body first, try to separate your true hunger & cravings from your psychological (emotional eating). What are you really hungry for & what is your body really telling you.
“Tell me what you eat, I'll tell you who you are.” Anthelme Brillat-Savarin
