Food Cravings And What They Mean

When you’ve got a craving that you just can’t shake, it may be that your body is trying to tell you that it’s running low on certain vitamins and minerals.

So, put down the doughnut and listen up - what is your body really asking for?

Chocolate

Your body is really asking for: magnesium

As chocolate is high in magnesium, it’s likely a strong craving could indicate a drop in levels of the mineral vital for skin and hair. If you aren’t willing to go separate ways, at least opt for chocolate that’s made up of at least 75% cocoa.

Find it in: whole-grains, dark green vegetables, bananas, blueberries, watermelon, nuts, fish, sunflower seeds, legumes and tofu.

Chips/salty snacks

Your body is really asking for: sodium or electrolytes

If your hand is reaching for the chips and salty snacks at every given opportunity, it’s likely that your body is craving sodium – and rightly so. Your body does need sodium, however not the type you’ll find clogging up the majority of the supermarket aisles.

Additionally, cravings for salty food may also be attributed to under-hydration, so make sure you’re keeping yourself well watered.

Find it in: Himalayan sea salt and sea salt, sweet potato, broccoli, beets, carrots, nuts, seeds and tomatoes 

Sweets

Your body is really asking for: chromium, magnesium or a stable blood sugar level

Ignoring these mineral deficiencies by rewarding them with cake and lollies will only ensure your blood sugar stays on an unstable rollercoaster ride – push the stop button and control your cravings for all things sweet by feeding your body with foods high in chromium and magnesium.

As chromium is provided by every food group, it’s easy enough to add a little more into your diet. Opt for foods like broccoli, oats, green beans, barley and black pepper, ranked among the highest quality sources of chromium.

Just like your chocolate cravings, your sweet cravings could also indicate a magnesium deficiency. Make fruit your sweet fix by snacking on bananas, blueberries and watermelon.

Find it in: broccoli, oats, green beans, barley, tomatoes, whole grains, bananas, blueberries and watermelon

Cheese

Your body is really asking for: calcium, omega 3 fatty acids… or just generally MORE calories

It’s not uncommon to want cheese all the time (we think), but if you’re craving cheddar on a regular basis, you could be suffering the effects of calcium or essential fatty acid deficiency.  

Additionally, dense foods like cheese, peanut butter and heavy desserts all have one thing in common – a high-calorie count. If you’re craving calorie-rich foods, it’s highly likely your body is sending you signals to please feed it more. Undereating will not only slow down your metabolism but will also lead you to consume high-fat foods.  

Find it in: raw walnuts, wild salmon, flaxseeds, olive oil, leafy greens, yoghurt and milk

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