Can’t Stop Your Cravings? Here’s Why

Constant cravings, either for sweets, snacks, or additional meals, should be a cause for concern. The occasional sweet treat is fine, but a daily occurrence multiple times daily must be addressed. If stopping those cravings feels impossible, there may be a hormonal or nutritional challenge. Hormones like ghrelin and leptin are responsible for telling the body and brain when to eat and signaling satiety. Insulin regulates glucose levels in the blood, and poor management can lead to cravings. Hormone imbalances combined with stress, poor sleep, and diet issues can lead to cravings. Additionally, some nutritional deficiencies are known to affect appetite. Discuss concerns with a pharmacist, as there are many supplements available to conquer cravings.

Should you consider supplements?

Cravings can be due to an underlying issue such as type 2 diabetes or thyroid imbalances. Medication use and high-stress levels can also lead to appetite problems. Appetite problems, if left unaddressed, can lead to weight fluctuations, poor mood, sleep disturbances, and the development of chronic disease. If there are no clear medical conditions that require specific treatment, supplements can help. Consider supplements as a first point of addressing cravings along with simple lifestyle changes. These should be enough to close the gap, manage cravings, and even improve health. Sometimes, a deficiency in even the simplest of vitamins and minerals can lead to sugar or other food cravings.

Get some B vitamins

The 8 B vitamins are essential for energy production, blood cells, nervous system health, and much more. Some B vitamins, like B6 and B12, can also help with cravings. These are the essential vitamins to convert food to energy. Low levels can impact this delicate process. When affected, the conversion to glucose slows, potentially causing increased cravings for carbohydrates and sweets. These vitamins also help regulate hormones. Studies show that B6 and B12 play a role in regulating cravings and optimizing nutrition.

Vitamin D for cravings?

Vitamin D is a hormone involved in many processes in the body. For starters, vitamin D helps with blood sugar regulation, which is necessary for curbing cravings. Sufficient vitamin D is needed for insulin to work effectively, and deficiencies are often noticed in persons with insulin resistance. Vitamin D also helps with hormone regulation, such as testosterone and serotonin. Low serotonin levels can contribute to mood imbalances and increase cravings for comfort foods. At the same time, cortisol is easily managed with vitamin D, potentially reducing emotional eating and craving over time.

Protein and fiber supplements

Sometimes, a more balanced diet can help improve cravings, although there are cases where this may not be possible. Supplementing missing nutrients can optimize appetite. Protein, for instance, plays a major role in satisfying appetite. The slow-digesting food helps individuals feel fuller for longer periods. Protein also helps with muscle building, allowing for the optimal use of glucose. For those consuming insufficient amounts of protein, a daily supplement can help, replacing sweets with a healthy alternative. Fiber supplements also help. Foods need fiber to digest, which comes from fruit, vegetables, and some grains. A diet high in fiber regulates blood sugar and slows digestion. Consider a supplement with soluble and insoluble fiber for blood sugar regulation and appetite suppression.

Curb your appetite with magnesium

Magnesium is a trace mineral essential for hundreds of processes in the body. Famous for optimizing nervous system health, lowering cardiovascular risk, and improving brain function, magnesium has other uses. The mineral helps with blood sugar levels, manages cortisol levels, and improves mood and sleep. Studies show that low magnesium can lead to cravings for chocolate and sweet foods. A supplement may help with managing these cravings.

Crave these amazing supplements instead

Before asking about supplements, see a doctor if the cravings are accompanied by other unusual symptoms. Blood tests may reveal a more severe concern. Lifestyle changes, such as a protein-rich diet, proper hydration, and optimal sleep can help. Add these changes to the supplements for the best results. Work with a pharmacist for the best options to boost health and wellness without unwanted side effects. Cutting cravings can lead to a more productive, healthier lifestyle.