Lately, I've been craving potato chips. Yes, you read that right⎯health coach craving unhealthy foods. It's really not so much about the actual food but the cravings.
Our cravings really do say a lot about what's going on internally. In my particular case, I've spent that last two months packing, worrying and fretting about moving, eating on the go, and finally moving to a new town. All of that has caused my stress hormones to rise and fall like a rollercoaster ride.
I don't think it would be a huge problem if I only ate a little here and there...
So what can I do when that urge to sit at my desk and eat bowl of crisps/potato chips consumes me? The quickest thing is grab some celery and smear with peanut butter or go for a jar of olives. Then I need to consider increasing my essential fatty acids...maybe eat more wild caught salmon or eat walnuts. I typically drink smoothies with lots of greens and chia seeds or flax seeds but when things are packed in boxes.....
And what if you're craving sweets? You may be deficient in magnesium, tryptophan, sulphur or even chromium. If you find yourself having difficulty in resisting those temptuous desserts then try eating some sweet cantaloupe or honeydew⎯that should calm the craving then consider adding or increasing to your diet raw cacao (high in magnesium). You can't go wrong by increasing your consumption of leafy greens but make sure you incorporate a little oil⎯olive or avocado, i.e., to help maximum the digestion of those nutrients. Also consider eating seeds, nuts and some more fruit. Next time you have an 'craving attack' take a deep breath and consider why⎯then go for the healthier choice.
I also want to mention the emotional aspect of cravings. If one is craving sweets perhaps one needs more kindness and sweetness in one's life or maybe one is feeling sad. As for the salt craving, emotionally, I think I was just feeling overwhelmed.
Here is a link to an excellent article about cravings; it refers to the mind and body aspect of cravings and see what your cravings say about you:
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-6322/The-Physical-Spiritual-Meaning-Behind-Your-Cravings.html
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I am a Holistic Nutrition/Wellness Coach working to help men and women improve their health in a simple and attainable way. My approach is through the gradual introduction of healthy eating habits and living practices specific to his or her body and lifestyle. I work with my clients in creating a personalized plan that supports their short and long term health goals.
www.mariluzkersey.com
I received my training from The Institute for Integrative Nutrition, The Centre/College of International Holistic Studies, and The Heart of Herbs Herbal School, and am accredited by The American Association of Drugless Practitioners.
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