Food cravings and what they mean

By Bio Island Nutrition Team

Do you ever have a constant craving for chocolate or super salty food? Ever wonder if it actually means anything?

Cravings are usually a key indicator that your body is depleted in either a nutrient, or it is benefitting our body with some other process. These cravings are a warning to make sure we are giving our body whatever it needs to perform at its best. The most common cravings are sweet, salty, spicy and a majority of the time chocolate.

So what do these food cravings actually mean?

Chocolate is a biggy when it comes to people’s cravings. This is usually a key indicator that our body is lacking magnesium. Pure cacao contains a large percent of magnesium. Magnesium plays a key role in alleviating muscle cramps which is also why women may find themselves reaching for the chocolate bars during “that” time of the month.  

This also links in with other sweets aka sugar. Having a sweet tooth can also be a be key indication of our emotional wellbeing as it plays a key role biological and physiological processes. Sugar increases serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, memory and social behaviour. It is also known as the ‘happy hormone’ because once it is released you get a boost in your mood and this is almost like a rollercoaster effect.

Like sugar and serotonin. Salt and aldosterone go hand in hand. So what is aldosterone?

Aldosterone is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal gland and plays a role in helping the kidneys regulate water and the excretion of minerals, as well as regulating blood pressure. Aldosterone levels can fluctuate up and down much like cortisol. Because of its role within the body aldosterone plays a significant role in adrenal fatigue which is why our bodies can crave things such as chip, crackers and savoury foods. In general, this can show low aldosterone levels aka low adrenal function which is why individuals suffering with adrenal fatigue may therefore crave salty foods in order to help increase their blood pressure.  

Some other cravings not many people think about are spicy food. Constantly look for the best chilli sauce to put on all your meals?

Well there could be a couple of reasons for that. The main compound in chillies is called capsaicin. This interestingly enough is known as a natural pain reliever and has been noted to reduce the symptoms of inflammatory pains, dermatological and neuropathic pains. Because of this pain response it also causes the body to release endorphins in order to block those pain receptors.

Ever have a craving for an odd item like clay, dirt, chalk or ice?

This also referred to as pica and often means an iron or mineral deficiency. This is more likely seen in children or pregnant women as there is a greater nutritional need.

So, if you are craving something it may be more than likely there is a reason behind it, from either a nutrient deficiency, that endorphin rush or a physiological reason.

This information does not take into account your personal situation and is general in nature. You should consider whether the information is appropriate for your needs and seek professional medical advice.

Always consult your healthcare professional before taking any supplements or if any concerns arise.