By Samantha Griffith
What do
cravings really mean? We have all
experienced the insatiable cravings that seem to be so specific and always
correlated to food that we know isn’t, ever, paleo. There is a lot of debate out there as to what
cravings mean and why they come when they do, but there is a lot of evidence
that indicates a craving stems from a deficit in a nutrient that can be
alleviated given a proper, healthier, food choice.
As you can see in this table, most of the "What to Eat Instead" options are within the paleo diet, with the exception of some dairy and legume suggestions. Unless, following the Nutrition Challenge, you have consciously added back in some dairy or legumes, simply lean toward the paleo options.
This is definitely not to say food deficits are the only reasons for food cravings. There are a lot of times where emotions and psychological reasons lead toward the desire to eat "comfort foods", etc. This is not an end all, be all, rule of thumb, just a good tactic to keep around for when you can satisfy a craving without falling off the "wagon".
Another valid point to keep in mind is our water consumption. There is a reason we have required, what seems like, an immense amount of water for this Nutrition Challenge.
"Some experts estimate that up to 80 percent of the population is chronically dehydrated, so start with water before you try to decipher your cravings."
Often, we misinterpret our bodies signal for thirst as hunger. Before trying to satisfy your hunger, try drinking a glass of water and see if your craving subsides.
