There are some myths about what food cravings mean.
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| | Sometimes, quite late in the evening, I find the idea of crunching through a bowl (or two) of box-fresh corn flakes, drizzled in honey and drenched in ice-cold milk too much to resist. | | We've all experienced intense food cravings that seem to take over rational thought. But what truly drives these urgent pangs? Are cravings revealing clues to mysterious nutritional needs or devious saboteurs out to derail healthy habits? That's what today's Nutrition Edition is all about. | | First, let's set the scene: | | | | Let's make a start,
Tim Snaith
Newsletter Editor, Healthline |  | | Written by Tim Snaith
October 24, 2023 • 3 min read | | | |  | | | The truth about food cravings | | Intense desires for specific foods, aka food cravings, can stem from physical causes like hormones, poor sleep, dehydration, or diet quality. Mental triggers include stress, moods, and reward-seeking behaviors. | | However, despite feeling urgent, the notion that cravings indicate deficiency of a nutrient is not supported by science. | | As we all know, people usually crave energy-dense, highly processed foods — not steamed kale or brown rice. Plus, men and women tend to crave different foods, while both sexes require the same essential nutrients. | | A recent piece of research reveals cravings can have a strong neurological component, especially when it comes to associations with textures and fat content. Brain imaging showed that the part of the brain involved in reward processing responds strongly to the pleasurable mouthfeel of milkshakes. Participants with heightened sensitivity to a milkshake's smoothness ate more high fat food later. | | So, we now have a better idea of what causes cravings, but how can you successfully manage them – even those that feel impossible to resist? | | | • | | Where possible, avoid triggers like stress and lack of sleep. | | | | | • | Distracting yourself with physical activities. | | | | Another recent study found a diet high in the prebiotic fiber inulin dampened the brain's response to calorie-dense foods, potentially easing cravings. You can find natural sources of inulin in foods such as garlic, wheat, and asparagus. | | While occasional indulgence is fine, cravings can sabotage healthy habits. Understanding their sources, how to manage them, and how to effectively satisfy them in moderation (because fully abstaining isn't sustainable or enjoyable) can be a valuable part of maintaining a healthy diet. | | Tell us: Which food craving do you find hardest to resist? Or are you always able to ignore them? Let us know by email! | | | | | Well prepared | | | | | | |  | | Speks Geode Magnetic Fidget Sphere | | Feel a craving coming on? This could be your new secret weapon. The Geode's magnetic pentagons snap together pleasingly, so let it absorb your focus for a time instead of food pangs. It's potentially more moreish than your favorite snack, so order yours and fidget those food cravings into oblivion! | | | | Every product we recommend has gone through Healthline's vetting process. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline is owned by RVO Health. | | | | | | | | | | | | What we're digesting | | 💚 These 2 probiotics may help lower blood pressure. Found in cheese and yogurt, they've only been investigated in mice so far. | | 🤗 The 12 best foods for an upset stomach. These fruits, herbs, spices, and teas can all help ease the symptoms. | | 😩 Feeling shaky, weak, and tired? It may be due to something that is easy to treat. | | 🥛 11 best creatine supplements. It's one of the most extensively-studied supplements, and generally safe. Here are some of the best brands. | | | Thank you for reading! Next time, are there such things as natural beta-blockers? | | | Until next time, |  | Take care of yourself, and we'll see
you again soon! | | | | |  | | This edition was powered by | | resisting the urge. | | | | |
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