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Food cravings are a common occurance among all of us, but is it all in the mind or is there some reason for the craving sensation?
Food Cravings and How to Beat ThemCravings can be defined as the intense longing for a particular type of food and are something that more than 60% of the population have had. Are these “all in the head” or is there some explanation to why we crave? Nutritional ReasonsIt may be that some cravings are related to nutrition. This is certainly true when it comes to carbohydrates and low blood sugar. Low blood sugar can affect appetite fairly quickly, leaving you hungry and craving carbohydrate type foods. This doesn’t explain cravings for high fat sugary foods in place of carbohydrates such as pasta or potatoes. It is likely that the craving for high fat, sugary foods is due to the palatability of these. Fat helps carry flavor which is why high fat foods taste good. Sweetness is a flavor that humans were born liking, while other flavors are acquired. Dieter’s CravingsFood cravings are also common in dieters. Diets often focus on deprivation of certain foods and cravings for “forbidden” foods become strong, particularly because the food is labeled as “forbidden. When resistance to temptation gives way, guilt more than often follows. To avoid this situation, don’t label foods. Look for smart alternatives. For example, when craving fries, don’t go for fast food, buy a packet of oven bake low fat fries and have a small portion. Cravings in PregnancyWhile cravings are not completely understood, the strong and sometimes bizarre cravings during pregnancy can be attributed to high levels of hormones. Some cravings may be nutrition related. For example, a craving for steak may be indicative of the increased iron needs during pregnancy. Some bizarre cravings for non food items, like dirt or chalk have been reported in some pregnancies, although these are not common. These cravings are dangerous and should not be given in to! While there is no known reason for this occurrence, theories include that it may be related to iron or calcium deficiency. How to Beat CravingsThe trick is not to beat it, but to go with it in a more healthy way. Saying no when you really feel like something is likely to resolve in a binge later on. A good tip is to wait 20 minuets. If you’re still having a craving, allow yourself to have a small portion. For example, a mini candy bar rather than a giant one. This will give you a taste without going overboard on fat and calories. Another tip is to find a healthier alternative for your craving. Feel like something crunchy and salty? Instead of chips, go for a small handful of pretzels. Although these are still high in salt, they are low in fat. Watching your portion size and swapping choices will allow a little taste without going overboard.
The copyright of the article Food Cravings in Nutrition is owned by Nicola Graham. Permission to republish Food Cravings in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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