How many times have you been on a diet? And then some food craving
that lead you to binge eating effectively brought down all your gains and left
you feeling emotionally weak and guilty? And lead to another round of
starve-binge cycle?
Now scientists are trying to understand the science behind food cravings
and it may be more than a mix of psychological, social, and cultural factors.
Neuro-scientists have been studying brain scans and have found that
cravings activate the same circuits in brain as alcohol and drugs.
When one is stressed, the body craves for salt. Cheese and salami
have plenty of feel good chemicals. Fat is comforting. Sugar gives you an
energy boost. Chocolate has mood altering chemicals, mild stimulants, and
anti-depressants that create a sense of love and calm.
Not everything is equal in the world of cravings. There are some
gender gaps observed here with women having more cravings. It also varies with age
groups with younger kids craving more sweets than adults and elderly.
To get around your craving, distract yourself. If the smell of French
fries beckons you, step away and go smell roses and jasmine. Distract your
tongue receptors with fresh peppermint. Go exercise to get a quick endorphin
fix. Eat a healthy satisfying meal, and then allow yourself a small amount of
whatever you were craving.
Net: You need not feel guilty about food cravings; you do have
many ways to workaround these cravings without risking your health.
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