It’s not unusual to crave carbs, sugar, chocolate and French fries when you are stressed or dealing with depression. Cravings can be your body’s way of letting you know it’s not getting something it needs, such as a specific vitamin or mineral. Having certain cravings, such as for chocolate or other sweets, is also often linked to how you feel emotionally.
You don’t have to completely deprive yourself of the treats you enjoy. The key is understanding why you are craving them and making sure that your overall diet is balanced and nutritious.
Learning a little more about the connection between food and mood can empower you to control your cravings rather than letting them control you.
Common Causes of Food Cravings
• Psychological or emotional stress
• Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications
• Hormone imbalances (especially in relation to pregnancy and the menstrual cycle)
• Physical and mental health conditions (such as type 1 diabetes, depression, and eating disorders)
One theory about food cravings involves serotonin, a neurotransmitter needed for mood regulation. Researchers believe that having an imbalance of serotonin in the brain contributes to the development of depression.
When you’re craving carbs, you’re usually being drawn to foods that encourage serotonin production.
Therefore, to avoid food cravings, you should seek to balance your hormones.