Nov 14, 20244 min read

5 Steps to Decoding Your Cravings

Cravings—those sudden urges that pop up and demand our attention. Whether it’s that slice of chocolate cake or a salty snack, these cravings often get a bad rap as signs of weakness. But what if I told you that cravings are actually your body's way of sending important messages? Let’s get into what those urges might really be saying and learn how to better understand them.

Cravings can be anything from a desire for a sweet treat to a yearning for comfort foods on a rainy day. Contrary to popular belief, they aren’t just about willpower. Nope, these cravings can actually be signals that your body or mind is trying to tell you something important.

In this blog post, we're gonna talk about:

What are physical cravings
What are emotional cravings
Cravings stemmed from nutritional deficiencies
How to decoding your cravings

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Physical Cravings

Physical cravings usually mean your body needs something specific. Craving salty chips? Your body might be asking for more electrolytes. Feeling the need for a big steak? You could be low on protein or certain amino acids. Ignoring these signals can sometimes lead to imbalances that mess with your overall well-being.

Emotional Cravings

Emotions play a big role in cravings too. Ever reach for a tub of ice cream when you're stressed or feel the need for fries when you’re bored? These are emotional cravings, a response to how we’re feeling rather than what our bodies need. Recognizing these moments helps you understand what’s really going on inside.

Nutrient Deficiencies

Sometimes, cravings point to specific nutrient deficiencies. Constantly craving chocolate? You might be low on magnesium, which is found in cocoa. Understanding these connections can help you make healthier choices that satisfy your body’s needs.

This book made understanding my cravings so easy! I highly recommend The Hot Belly Diet by Dr. Suhas G. Kshirasagar. Not only does it give awesome insight on curbing unhealthy cravings, but this book is packed with insight on what your cravings are telling you about your body, and how to give your body a 30-day reboot so you can start the new year with a fresh clean slate! I promise, you and your body are going to thank me! Just click on the link!

Decoding Your Cravings

Listen Mindfully

Pause when a craving hits. Ask yourself: “What do I really want right now? Is it taste, texture, or am I feeling a certain way?” This moment of awareness helps you tell if the craving is physical or emotional.

Hydrate First

Before you reach for that snack, try drinking a glass of water. Dehydration sometimes tricks us into thinking we’re hungry or craving specific foods.

Check Nutrient Content

Do a little digging into the nutrients in the food you’re craving. If you're craving something sweet, maybe you need a natural energy boost. Grab some fruit instead, which comes packed with vitamins and fiber.

Explore Healthier Options

You don’t have to deny yourself! Swap out that craving with a healthier version. Craving something salty and crunchy? Reach for whole-grain crackers and hummus. And for my tea lovers, try making The Daily Drink (recipe found in The Hot Belly Diet by Dr. Suhas G. Kshirasagar), an Ayurvedic detox tea with fennel and cumin seeds. It’s hydrating, metabolism-boosting, helps people lose weight, and my students swear it helps reduce their cravings.

Do an Emotional Check-In

Feeling a craving tied to stress or boredom? Take a quick pause. Are you anxious or just feeling blah? Sometimes, going for a walk, practicing yoga, or simply taking a few deep breaths can work wonders.

Balance and Moderation

Indulging every now and then is totally okay! Being too strict can backfire and lead to overindulging later. The key is to find that sweet spot between treating yourself and staying mindful about your choices.

We're leaving food/craving shaming in the past! Get The Hot Belly Diet by Dr. Suhas G. Kshirasagar. This book is a literal roadmap to understanding your body and your needs, and how you can prosper just by understanding and listening to them! The book is the cheapest it's ever going to be, at only $10! Click the link, and join the thousands of us who are ready to reconnect with our bodies and minds to achieve our highest selves! It's time to be happy again!

The Sum Up

Cravings aren’t the enemy. They’re your body’s way of sending you important clues about what it needs. By tuning in and decoding these signals, you can make choices that align with your health and well-being.

Most cravings are associated with a certain imbalance in the body. Imbalance of what though? Check out my post on How to Decode your Cravings Using Ayurveda.

If you already know your dosha, check out my posts on 10 Energizing Foods for Pitta, 10 Energizing Foods for Vata, and 10 Energizing Foods for Kapha.