What food cravings really mean

Craving chocolate cake or a bag of chips? Find out what your cravings are trying to tell you
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Why do we crave certain foods? - What food cravings really mean Images: iStockphoto.com

Why do we crave certain foods?

All day, you’ve had a craving for chocolate cake that you just can’t shake. Is it a sure sign that you’re deprived of the minerals found in this sweet treat, like magnesium or potassium?

Not so fast. A food craving could be sending you a message, but probably not the one you’re expecting. Cravings, after all, are often for nutrient-poor foods like doughnuts, cola or chips. It’s hardly likely your body needs them. So what are your cravings really trying to tell you? Read on to find out.

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IMany of the statements made in this artcile are outdated.

Someone already pointed out the pica issue. Other issues?

For many people who are watching their weight dairy is a culprit. Human hormones interact with th hormones in the product (think of where dairy comes from?) and may activate insulin storage of dietary fats. Most people need to limit dairy and use nuts or green leafy veggies for calcium. To deal with cravings for salt drink more water, not milk.

Eat more grains to cure sugar cravings? Not likely the solution. There is no nutritional reason to consume grains. Other foods will supply everything needed. However, grains do contain carbs, which react as sugar in the body. Too MUCH sugar or other carbohydrates are likely to trigger cravings for more sweet things. Instead of eating more carbs, try cutting way back on them. The best advice is to reduce carbohydrate levels until the cravings stop.

The science behind all of these statements has changed. Time to get updated!

The myth that healthy food is expensive is exactly that, a MYTH!!! My roommate and I each put $100/month into the food "kitty", and buy all of our food AND household products. (Bathroom tissue, kleenex, cleaners.) with it. We buy simple products, usually in larger quantities when they are on sale. Our freezer is ALWAYS full of meat, bread, veggies etc., we have fresh veggies and fruit on hand at all times. It takes a little more work to eat well for cheap than to buy "lean cuisine" or other salt-laden garbage, but it's WAY CHEAPER than eating McDonalds or even Kraft dinner all the time.

Helpful hints...

To say that these tips are for the fat-wallet folks, though, is a sad misconception. Healthy foods certainly do not cost more that re-packed junk foods or frozen entrees. Realistically, eating raw foods, particularly fruits and veggies in season is do-able for even the most destitute. If one must buy food, one could certainly select healthy food and be aware of its effects.

Besides, this article is targeted at people who can afford extras. Certainly no one "needs" chocolate cake...

I agree completely with GARY....We have to eat the food that we have intolerance because this is all that is left in the house and no money. Yes , please come down from
your ivory tower...completely true

In reference to PMS: "Try taking a viamin E supplement" - My neurologist has told me never to take them - there is some new research on this subject. I'll go with his advise, thx.

These dietary tips are always a good. Too bad they never take into consideration so many people cannot afford to eat properly and healthy.
If you not belive this is truth you need to come out of your ivory tower and see the real world.
I might be able to afford a few bananas a week but thats it.
Please try to come up with ideas for what is quickly beconing the majority.

"Pica" is not a synonym for junk food craving. Pica is a disorder, people with it eat paint, cigarette butts, dirt, etc. Looks like you might need a new thesaurus!

 
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