Deciphering the Cravings Code

What is it about a stressful day that makes you crave chocolate? Or when you’re sick with a cold, why do we crave chicken soup? When you’re snuggled on the couch with a warm blanket watching a movie, do you crave hot chocolate, tea, popcorn? And of course, after a big blow-out with your significant other, who doesn’t turn to ice cream?

Cravings are a strong and sometimes unavoidable force that drives us to our body’s needs. Like craving steak or lentils when you’re low on iron, it can serve an important function for keeping your body healthy and strong. But often, this same untamable force could throw us off our diet and leave us caught with our hand in the cookie jar (both figuratively and literally.)

Cravings aren’t always evil, think of them as a little nudge. But it’s important to understand where they come from, and break them down to give your body what it’s asking for. By learning to decipher your body’s “Cravings Code,” you’ll learn a much deeper understanding of what your body really needs.

Here are some ideas about what your craving could be telling you:

·         Sometimes you’re just thirsty. Try having a glass of water and wait 10 or 15 minutes. For a little flavor, squeeze some lemon or orange in your glass.

·         Let’s say you’re craving candy, so you’re probably looking for something sweet. Try a healthier version; grab some raspberries, grapes or a grapefruit.

·         You’re stressed and looking for something crunchy? Instead of potato chips, try some raw pecans or walnuts. The extra fat is filling and the crunch often satisfies the need to chew. lus you're getting those Omega 3's. I personally love smearing almond butter on a rice cake.

·        Go for a walk, hit the gym or meditate. If you’re bored, stressed or tired one of those should fit the bill. Some times what we need to do is feed ourselves some primary foods remember those? We'll review next.)

When you do give in to your craving, really appreciate it. Savor it, chew it slowly and give yourself a chance to become aware of your decision. Shoveling it down isn’t only bad for your digestion, but it’s also making the association for your brain that this is a “guilty food”. Often, we are seeking a guilty pleasure, thinking that something “bad” will make us feel better. This association with guilt only strengthens the hold that the craving has on you. If you allow yourself to enjoy it, you’ll not only help dissociate this hold, but you’ll also be less likely to over indulge and realize when you’ve had enough.

Having trouble deconstructing your cravings? Maybe it’s a good time to talk to a health coach (like me!) to help you break down your binges. Email me if you have any questions.