Cravings…

We’ve all felt it. That irritable sensation of hanger that makes you say, “I would kill for ____!!!”Let’s talk (or read) about cravings.

What do I crave? Let’s see…dark chocolate, avocado toast, guacamole, greek yogurt, mangoes… And of course the unhealthy: cookies, chocolate cake, brownies, ice cream, pita chips (the last one’s debatable I guess)

Of course, not everyone has cravings. But studies show that nearly 100% of women and 70% of men have cravings. So what is to blame for this global hanger?

1. Memory areas of our brain which associate food with a reward
2. Calming stress and reducing anxiety – typically foods high in fat, sugar, or both

So how do we respond to cravings?

1. Portion control! Don’t go for the family size pack of chips because they are cheap because a craving for chips could lead to eating half the bag
2. Eat several meals a day to prevent overeating
3. Start a cravings journal and write down what causes your cravings
4. Drink more water
5. Take a walk after eating a meal
6. De-stress by meditating, doing yoga, reading a good book or magazine, taking a hike, etc.

So the next time a craving pops up, don’t give in!!! Stop yourself before it’s too late.

Love,

Serena