Often occur when we are stressed or anxious. At these times, we typically opt for high carbohydrate foods. Eating carbohydrates increases levels of serotonin, which has a calming effect on our mood. However, only complex carbohydrates result in a steady rise that is long lasting.
Sugary foods overstimulate the reward centers of the brain, which can result in cravings. Sugar releases dopamine in the brain – enabling us to see rewards and move towards them. If we consume too much sugar, the dopamine receptors will start to decrease, which means that the next time we eat simple carbohydrates, they cannot perform to the same level. The result is that we will need to eat more sugar to achieve the same effect.
Simple carbohydrates create spikes in our blood and we tend to crave these unhealthy foods when our blood sugar plummets. This can cause over eating and weight gain.
Cravings for particular foods often indicate deficiencies of specific nutrients and can be addressed through dietary modifications. Cravings might also be signals from our body that we are dehydrated and need water. Establishing the cause of your cravings, whether its adrenal fatigue, blood sugar fluctuations or PMS is the first step to gaining back control.