Why you should eat beans to curb a pizza craving (and nuts for chocolate… !)

Craving a scrumptious, delectable, sinful pizza absolutely dripping with cheese or constantly find yourself reaching for that box of Godiva chocolates, shutting up the part of your brain that’s blabbering on about killing your skin and destroying the hard-won waistline?

But have you ever wondered: What do food cravings mean?

I’m all for giving in to unhealthy food binges, especially on a late Sunday evening while snuggled in bed watching reruns of Grey’s Anatomy (no one loves a medical drama more than I do!).

But if you’re curious (and a little more health-conscious), you’ll be fascinated to know that food cravings often signal our body’s need for certain nutrients. Think of cravings as your body’s way of waving a little SOS flag for replenishment.

Better yet, most cravings can be satisfied with healthier alternatives—meaning you can indulge the urge without piling on calories or destroying your skin. Here’s a guide to help you decode and respond to your body’s cravings more mindfully.

You are craving: Chocolate

Your body needs: According to scientific research, chocolate cravings may mean you are low in magnesium. Chocolate, especially the dark kind, is rich in magnesium, a mineral that helps with muscle function, relaxation, and energy production.

What to do: If you’re always reaching for chocolate, add more magnesium-rich foods to your diet, like nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and avocados. Or hey, just go for that square of dark chocolate—life’s too short.

You are craving: Salty snacks

Your body needs: Craving salt might indicate a need for more sodium, especially if you’ve been sweating a lot or not drinking enough water. It could also point to stress or adrenal fatigue.

What to do: Incorporate sodium-rich foods like olives, pickles, canned tuna, sushi, and cheese. Hydrate well and add potassium-rich foods like bananas and sweet potatoes to maintain balance. And if stress is the culprit, maybe swap those chips for a quick meditation (or have a few chips… we’re only human).

You are craving: Sweets (like hard candy or dessert!)

Your body needs: A desire for sweets might mean your blood sugar is low or your energy is dipping. It can also reflect a need for serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone.

What to do: Reach for fruit or complex carbs like oatmeal to stabilize your blood sugar. And remember, sometimes a cookie is the serotonin boost you didn’t know you needed. Just balance it out with some fiber and protein later.

You are craving: Deep fried snacks

Your body needs: Craving deep-fried snacks like fries or fried chicken can signal a need for energy or essential fats. It may also reflect emotional cravings for comfort food.

What to do: Opt for oven-baked or air-fried alternatives to satisfy the craving in a healthier way. Incorporate healthy fats like avocado or nuts into your meals to reduce the urge for deep-fried foods. But hey, sometimes nothing beats crispy fries—just enjoy them in moderation.

You are craving: Red meat

Your body needs: You might be low in iron or zinc. Red meat is rich in both, and your body might be nudging you toward a nutrient it’s missing.

What to do: Add more zinc and iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils, and beans to your diet. But if a burger calls your name, it’s okay to answer once in a while.

You are craving: Carbohydrates (think cheese, bread, pasta, pizza… )

Your body needs: Craving carbs might indicate low energy, fatigue, or a need for comfort. Carbs are quick sources of energy and can boost serotonin.

What to do: Opt for quinoa, lean chicken, whole grain cereals or bread, bean salad, bean chili, baked potatoes, brazil nuts, oily fish, avocados, broccoli, or sweet potatoes to satisfy your craving in a way that keeps energy steady. And let’s face it, nothing beats a cozy bowl of pasta now and then. 

You are craving: Fatty foods

Your body needs: Cravings for fatty foods can indicate a need for essential fatty acids or even low energy reserves (maybe you are sleep deprived?).

What to do: Try incorporating healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, salmon, and nuts into your meals. But also, sometimes fries just hit differently—just enjoy them mindfully.

You are craving: Spicy food

Your body needs: Craving spicy food can indicate a need for stimulation or even endorphin release. Spicy foods can boost metabolism and trigger the release of feel-good chemicals.

What to do: Incorporate more naturally spicy foods like chili peppers, ginger, and garlic into your meals. Spicy cravings can often be satisfied with flavorful curries or salsas that provide a heat kick without the excess calories. Enjoy the spice, but keep water handy!

You are craving: Ice cream (or other forms of dairy)

Your body needs: Ice cream cravings could signal a need for calcium or even fat. Sometimes, dairy cravings are also emotional, linked to memories or comfort.

What to do: Yogurt, almonds, and leafy greens can help. But if you’re eyeing the ice cream, consider a smaller portion or a healthier alternative, like frozen bananas blended with a splash of milk.

You are craving: Soda and soft drinks

Your body needs: Craving soft drinks might mean your body is searching for quick energy, serotonin boost (the happiness chemical), or hydration. It can also reflect a need for sugar or even a caffeine boost.

What to do: Try sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice or herbal tea to mimic the fizzy sensation. Staying hydrated and opting for natural energy sources like fruit can help reduce these cravings.

By understanding what food cravings mean, you can make healthier choices that nourish your body while still enjoying occasional indulgences.

So, what are you craving today?