What do your cravings really mean?

Your body is always communicating with you. It has a special way of informing you of exactly what it needs. The problem today, is that we are often too busy and too distracted to receive these messages. Do you ever think about the foods that you are eating? I mean, really focus on what you are putting into your mouth? The purpose of food is to provide you with the nutrients that your body needs.  According to www.dictionary.com, food is “any nourishing substance that is eaten, drunk or otherwise taken into the body to sustain life, provide energy, and promote growth.”

I am thinking of a few things that I consumed over the weekend that was of no nutritional value and took my energy levels to a plummeting low.

Yes, there are times when I do not make the healthiest food choices. My goal is to be mindful of what I eat which simply means, I choose what I want to eat without judgement. I make a conscious effort to add more greens and clean foods to my meal plan. This allows me to enjoy food without feeling guilty.

Each of us are on our individual wellness journey. What works for me may not work for you. It is important to increase your awareness so that you can figure out what your body needs.

I learned how to listen to my body and get a better understanding of what cravings mean while studying at The Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Cravings are simply another way that your body communicates to you what it needs.

You can better understand your cravings by reflecting on the following:

Do you tend to crave sugar or salt?

When you crave sugar, your body may need more water, relaxation or love.

Salt cravings may indicate that you need more minerals – magnesium, calcium, potassium or nutrient-dense foods – greens, salmon, and eggs are a few examples.

Source: Institute for Integrative Nutrition Daily Journal, Your Guide to a Happier, Healthier Life, 2014

The next time you crave something consider the following questions:
• Is this real food?
• Will this provide my body with the nutrients/minerals that it needs?
• Am I dehydrated?
• Do I need to relax?
• Do I feel loved?

Take time to connect with your body by focusing on the foods that you are eating and how those foods affect your body. When you find yourself craving unhealthy foods, figure out why. Celebrate your micro-win each time you make a healthy food choice.
You have everything within to reclaim your power over your body.

Keema Perry is the founder of Powerhouse Academy. She is the go-to-guide for women over 40 who feel overworked, overstretched and overwhelmed. She helps women to develop self-awareness and reclaim their power over their health and happiness. You can learn more about Powerhouse Academy by visiting her website and following her on Instagram and Facebook.

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