CASE STUDY & SUCCESS STORIES
Self-love involves nurturing a positive relationship with food intake and body signs, which includes addressing the root causes of cravings rather than succumbing to guilt.
Food cravings can vary widely in type and intensity, and they may indicate different underlying needs or imbalances in the body.
1. Constant carbohydrate and/or comfort food cravings: Our nutrition composition for the day and most importantly the breakfast food composition along with distracted eating (engaging with gadgets while consuming food) and the timing of this meal makes us crave more food towards the evening and late in the night. Protein deficiency and lack of fibre in meals intensify hunger pangs and cravings later in the evening.
2. Chocolate cravings: It indicates magnesium deficiency. Consuming magnesium-rich foods such as cacao, nuts, hemp seeds, hemp milk veggies and fruits reduces the cravings.
3. Sugary food cravings: these might indicate a deficiency of certain minerals and amino acids in the body such as tryptophan and phosphorous. Focus on eating whole fruits, nuts and vegetables at that time.
4. Carbohydrate cravings: cravings for carb-rich foods such as bread, pasta, pizza indicate protein deficiency in the body and hence eating high-protein meals and healthy fats during the first half of the day will make the body satiated and full for a long and will keep away the cravings.
5. Oily and fried foods cravings: They indicate calcium and vitamin D deficiency and hence supplementation and foods such as yoghurt, cheese, and green leafy vegetables will help meet the deficiency and keep away the cravings.
6. Cravings for salty foods: It suggests electrolyte imbalance in the body. Salt helps the body retain water, so cravings for salty foods may be a signal that the body needs more hydration. Hence, focus on hydrating the body well and consume enough fluids through the day such as coconut water, vegetable juices, etc.
Fostering a better equation with food involves reframing the relationship with eating. Instead of viewing certain foods as "good" or "bad," it's important to adopt a balanced and intuitive approach to eating. This means listening to the body's cues for hunger and satiety, honouring cravings in moderation, and nourishing the body with a variety of nutrient-rich foods that energize and sustain the health.
Addressing the root causes of cravings and emotional eating involves self-compassion and mindfulness. Rather than feeling guilty or ashamed for indulging in certain foods, it's important to explore the underlying emotions or triggers that may be driving these behaviours. By cultivating self-awareness and practicing self-compassion, one can develop healthier coping strategies and make empowered choices that honour the physical and emotional well-being.
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