When you start a new diet, you’re still probably going to get cravings for junk food. Your body is used to getting nutrients from unhealthy sources. So when you crave something, you aren’t craving the actual junk food. You’re craving an associated nutrient. Here’s a guide from our nutritional coaches to what your body might actually want when you have a craving and what you can eat instead:
1. Sweets: When you crave sweets, your body is usually telling you that you need chromium, phosphorus, sulfur, or tryptophan. Here’s what to have instead:
● Chromium: Mushrooms, beets, broccoli, grapes
● Phosphorus: Nuts, fish, chicken, eggs
● Sulfur: Garlic, onions, cabbage, cauliflower
● Tryptophan: Raisins, sweet potatoes, spinach, yogurt
Craving sweets can also be a sign that you are dehydrated and your body is craving water. So try drinking a glass of water before reaching for the desserts.
2. Salty Snacks: Craving salty snacks like chips, pretzels, or popcorn can be a sign your body needs chloride. Try eating a chloride rich food like olives, tomatoes, celery, or lettuce. A simple tossed salad is a great option when you are craving a salty snack.
3. Fried Foods: Craving fried foods like fast food french fries usually means your body is looking for calcium. Grab a snack of plums, dates, kale, or broccoli instead.
4. Carbs: If you are eating low-carb but are still craving breads and pastas, your body is probably telling you that you need nitrogen. Try eating beans, oatmeal, peas, or lentils. These are a great option because they can also substitute carbs in most meals.
5. Carbonated Drinks: Craving a soda or pop usually means your body needs calcium. Good sources of calcium include oranges, almonds, spinach, and broccoli.
6. Chocolate: When you crave chocolate, it usually means your body wants magnesium. Healthy sources of magnesium include nuts, seeds, and most fruits and vegetables. The good thing about craving chocolate though is you don’t have to give it up. Chocolate is really healthy for you if you choose the right chocolate. Skip the sugary and dairy-healthy chocolate bars and grab a bar of dark chocolate with 70% cacao or more or just much on a handful of cocoa nibs.