What Your Cravings are Trying to Tell You

There’s no denying it—we all have food cravings that tempt us from time to time. Whether it’s chocolate or carbs, cravings can threaten to throw you off track in your pursuit of health and fitness goals. But what do these cravings actually mean—and is there a way to satisfy your stomach without derailing your healthy lifestyle?

You don’t need to fight against your body’s cravings! Instead, use your cravings to become more in tune with the nutrients your body needs. Here’s how to listen to your body and replace tempting treats with healthy alternatives.

Why am I craving salt?
Don’t ignore your salt cravings; if you’re craving it, you probably need it! If your salt cravings persist, it could be due to chronic stress—or it could be because you’re getting the wrong kind of salt. Many processed foods include refined salt, which strips the sodium of many minerals, instead of the naturally occurring unrefined salt. Opt for pink Himalayan sea salt or another naturally occurring salt to season your dishes.

Why does my body want fried, fatty foods?
If you’re craving fried foods, it might be a sign that you need more sleep. Low energy levels from sleep deprivation can make it easy to confuse fatigue and hunger, and this confusion can influence you to choose fatty, fried foods that easily activate your brain’s reward center. Instead of fried foods, opt for healthy fats found in fish or vegetable oils. Try this salmon with red pepper pesto recipe that features almonds and olive oil.

Why am I craving something sweet?
Sugar cravings could stem from a number of causes, including high stress levels, hormonal changes and overeating highly processed carbs. If your sweet tooth seems unable to be satisfied, your body might be low on chromium, an element that works with insulin to help carry glucose through the bloodstream. To get more chromium, try foods like broccoli, grapes and beans. These frosted grapes are a great alternative to an unhealthy sugar fix!

What’s the deal with my craving for carbs?
If you’re hankering for carbs like bread and pasta, you might actually be craving sugar. Instead of overly-processed sweets, opt for fruits and sweet veggies that are low in natural sugar. Trade out candy for cranberries; tangy and sweet, they offer a similar flavor without the sugar. One cup of cranberries only has about four grams! Avocados, raspberries and blackberries are also great alternatives to sugary sweets. Try this raspberry and blackberry smoothie to satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthy way.

Why am I craving chocolate?
Ah, the age-old question. Craving chocolate might be a reaction to hormonal and emotional triggers—but it also might be a sign that your body needs more magnesium. If you’re craving chocolate, opt for foods high in magnesium like dark, leafy greens or nuts and seeds. But you don’t need to completely deprive yourself of chocolate—just stick to small portion sizes and opt for organic dark chocolates rather than highly-processed milk chocolates. Add our Complete Dutch Chocolate mix to your routine to satisfy your cravings!

What are your favorite healthy alternatives when you find yourself with cravings? Let us know in the comments below!

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