AHHH.... Cravings and why we get them!

As you all know from my previous blog, I'm training for a figure competition. Therefore, nutrition is the most critical portion of the training process. Since Carlos helped me clean up my eating habits, I've been getting these cravings for certain foods that I normally would satisfy on the spot! Now you might be asking yourself where these cravings come from?!?!

For the most part, cravings come from a psychological standpoint. What I mean by this is anytime our emotions take over, whether we get stressed, anxious, frustrated, or bummed out about sometime what's the first thing we grab? Junk!!!

Solution: Figure out the underlying problem and stop bandaging it! Go for a walk or get your butt in gear and exercise. If you're upset do something that makes you happy, call a friend or even better visit a friend! Stressed about something? As Nike says, "JUST DO IT." Stare the issue in the face and squash it!

Another reason is not eating frequent meals. Sometimes when I get busy and I skip a meal, or I don't eat within a 3 hour gap, I start to crave foods that aren't so good for me. Frequency is key!!! Eating every 2-3 hours or 6 meals a day will regulate your levels of a hormone called insulin. What's so important about this hormone? Well, insulin makes blood sugar go into your muscles and into your tissues, and if you regulate your insulin levels throughout the day you're less apt to gorge on food. In conclusion, the first step to kill a craving is to eat small frequent meals.

Some little tricks that have helped me this past week have been drinking water and waiting it out. After about 15 minutes, my craving went away. Also, at times when I get home and I'm starving, and I know I'm about to choose something not so healthy, I will make some hot tea. This will buy me some time to prepare a nice healthy meal. Try it!

Now I need your help... I haven't done enough research on this particular topic, but some people say that food cravings are also an indicator of a vitamin deficiency. What's your opinion on the subject matter? Also, if you have any suggestions or tips feel free to respond. I can't wait to hear what you have to say! If you want more information then I suggest you purchase JC's Midlife Makeover book, it's helped me tremendously!

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