We ALL do it. Hunger (or stress) comes, your stomach rumbles at 3 AM, and that pizza calls your name. And suddenly you’re halfway through a large pizza with no end in sight.
But all those cravings can leave us sluggish and irritable, and for some, food can become a dangerous coping mechanism.
Read on to find out how to combat your most common food cravings!
If You’re Craving:
Pizza
Craving pizza (or cheese in general) can indicate a fatty acid deficiency in your diet. Omega-3’s help to reduce inflammation and lower risk of chronic joint problems.
Try:
Edamame
Soybeans are not only delicious, they’re also an amazing source of Omega-3’s! Sprinkle a little salt on top and you’re ready to enjoy a healthy and satisfying snack.
If You’re Craving:
Sweets
Craving cookies, cake, or candy can indicate blood sugar fluctuations. Eating too much refined sugar causes your blood sugar to spike and then fall dramatically, making it hard for your body to find a sustainable balance.
Try:
Blueberries
Blueberries are not only sweet, they are also filled with anti-oxidants to combat free radicals! This tasty fruit also has a low glycemic index, meaning that it won’t have a roller coaster effect on your blood sugar level.
If You’re Craving:
French Fries
Craving salty foods can indicate high stress levels. When you’re stressed your adrenal glands release the hormone, cortisol, which causes your body to crave fatty, simple carb foods that can be used up quickly. This is a natural response to a perceived threat, but your body doesn’t know that it’s facing a mid-term paper that’s due in twelve hours, and not a predator that wants to eat you.
Try:
Exercise
Exercise is a fantastic way to reduce stress! Physical activity releases a feel-good neurotransmitter called an endorphin that improves your mood. Exercise also increases self-confidence and your feeling of control over your body as well as your life.
If you feel like you’re using food to combat stress or unhappiness and are unable to stop, please look at the resources below/or seek help from a health professional. You are not alone!
http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/online-eating-disorder-screening
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/eating-disorders/index.shtml
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eating-disorders/basics/symptoms/con-20033575
Sources:
1. http://www.active.com/nutrition/articles/common-food-cravings-and-what-they-mean
2. http://www.womenshealthmag.com/nutrition/omega-3-foods
3. http://www.care2.com/greenliving/what-your-cravings-mean.html
4. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=faq&dbid=32
5. http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469