Cravings

Why Do cravings matter?

Cravings are our body’s way of telling us it needs something. This can be a physical need or an emotional need.

The occasional craving for a dessert or fries is normal and harmless, but if it becomes a habitual tendency that prevents you from achieving your goals or keeps you stuck, then it’s worth looking into the root cause.

common reasons we get cravings:

• Dehydration

• Stress

• Lack of sleep

• Over or under exercising

• Boredom

• Habit

• Food imbalance; Too much or too little of a certain food (i.e. salt)

• Lack of nutrients; You’re more inclined to crave sugar if you're not getting enough protein

• Lack in one or more areas of your life such as relationships, career, social life, finances, etc.; You’re likely to turn to food, substances or behaviors to cope with that negative emotion or feeling

 Ways to reduce and manage cravings:

• Practice mindfulness. Pause before diving in. Identify & address the root cause by asking yourself where the craving is coming from. Listen to your body and give yourself what you actually need - sometimes that might be a conversation to mend a strained relationship, water, sleep, or a walk. The junk food, alcohol etc. typically doesn’t help and only exacerbates the issue

• Hydrate

• Sleep; Regulates blood sugar, so proper sleep helps curbs cravings

• Exercise

• Meditation; Teaches you to be less reactive and impulsive, better able to identify the root cause, and gives you perspective on how to best address it

• Eat consistent meals; Don’t skip meals

• Eat meals that are balanced in nutrients; Processed junk food drives cravings; Nutritious foods reduce cravings

• Don't make certain foods off-limits because you'll crave them more; Indulge in moderation

Questions to Ask yourself when a craving hits:

Before diving in, pause, and ask yourself:

• How do you feel when the craving comes on?

• How do you feel after you’ve “satisfied” it with unhealthy food, substances or behaviors?

• How have you typically addressed this craving in the past?

• What’s a healthier way to satisfy this need that would better align with your goals?

• How could you address this craving in a way that makes you feel good afterwards?

• What do you actually need?

• Is there an emotional or physical need that needs to be met?

• Is it a Habit?

• Are you bored? Stressed? Anxious? Lonely? Thirsty? Tired?

If you struggle with cravings I can help you find healthier and more effective ways to address your needs and process emotions.