For the last two weeks, I have been craving fried chicken. I am not a big fan of fried chicken, that is to say I eat it occasionally, but never cook it. Usually when I cook chicken, it is a baked breast or Tyson’s chicken strips. However, I may have to go out for lunch today just to get some fried chicken so I can get it off my mind.
What makes us have cravings? Do we have any control over them? There are many theories. Some researchers think we crave things when we are on an overly strict diet. Others think cravings are related to hormonal changes, childhood association, the need for comfort food, and even stress. Some think cravings are the body’s way of saying it is in need of certain nutrients. Research shows that men are more likely to crave salty foods while women crave sweets. Most often, what you are really craving is fat. Because fat is densest in all nutrients, it is natural for our bodies to crave it. Therefore, when you reach for a cookie, it may not be the sugar you are craving, but the fat in the cookie.
Regardless of what causes cravings, we cannot always give in to them. How do we fight cravings? One way is to eat meals and snacks at regular intervals. Too many people today are starving themselves on diets and that only makes cravings worse. Make sure your diet is rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and health fats. This will help keep your metabolism humming along and regulate your blood sugar.
Another way to fight cravings is to understand what triggers them and avoid those triggers. It could be something as simple as watching a commercial on television for pizza that triggers your desire to order one. Make yourself busy during commercials if you think this is a craving trigger for you. Some people have cravings triggered by smell. If this is the case, avoid going by that bakery that just finished baking fresh pies.
Just like hunger, cravings have strong peaks. Next time you crave a piece of chocolate, but your waistline says you really do not need it, take a walk to keep from thinking about the chocolate. Anything to keep your mind off your craving may help it subside.
Finally, if you just cannot help it, give in to your cravings, but do it in moderation. Instead of eating the entire package of Hershey Kisses, eat one or two to see if that settles your craving. Place a few chips in a bowl and eat that instead of wolfing down the entire bag. If you truly feel you are out of control with your cravings, seek the advice of a doctor or registered dietician.
Chances are you will not ever be able to get rid of cravings completely, but you may be able to control them.