Most weight loss plans seem simple enough to follow and you probably begin with good intentions and lots of motivation to lose weight, until you’re hit with uncontrollable food cravings. Chocolate. . .  wine. . . pasta. . . biscuits. . . beer. Whatever your poison, you’ve probably been faced with cravings while following various types of weight loss plans in the past.

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. We all know what it’s like to CRAVE!

Cravings for carbs and sweets can be a challenge to control and can make or break your weight loss plans. But with determination and education, you can stay on track and in control.

Cravings can tell us a lot about our body. Reasons for cravings range from nutritional deficiencies, hormones and monthly cycles for women, satisfying emotional needs of boredom, loneliness, stress, anxiety, frustration or just the need for comfort.

Sugar cravings can be caused by a deficiency in protein or chromium, or fluctuating blood sugar. Salt cravings could be related to adrenal stress, muscular disorders, high blood pressure or diabetes. Sour food cravings may be caused by the body detoxifying decaying protein.

Interestingly enough, some people with food allergies or sensitivities may crave the very food they are allergic/sensitive to. Candida overgrowth in the body can also cause cravings.

So stop and take a moment to think what may be going on for you when you are next challenged by cravings.

Be aware also that some medications can stimulate your appetite. Anti-depressants, other prescription drugs and non-prescription drugs can often stimulate you to eat things you would not normally eat. If you think this is happening, discuss it with your health professional. Maybe there is a natural alternative that does not produce the same (cravings) effect.

Controlling blood sugar levels while following weight loss plans

The major trigger for food cravings is low or fluctuating blood sugar levels. This is typically caused by a lack of food as a result of going too long between meals or eating a very low calorie diet. Eating sweet foods and refined carbs will cause an imbalance in blood sugar levels. Our brain also needs this balance in blood sugar levels in order to function.

Eating nutritious and balanced meals (fat/oils, protein, carbs) at regular intervals will help the body to maintain blood sugar levels. Eating regularly throughout the day helps control the appetite and prevents overeating at meal times, which in turn will help you to manage your weight, while controlling those cravings.

And remember try not to rush; avoid worry (become aware of your thoughts) and over-concern when changing something as crucial to your well-being as your diet. As you learn more, implement the changes you are comfortable with. Let your diet evolve in ways that are harmonious, and therefore healing.

Socrates once said: “There is only one good, knowledge, and one evil, ignorance”. So keep reading the Liberate Yourself! blog for more of the good stuff. . . knowledge!

Are you hit with powerful food cravings every time you try to follow weight loss plans? What foods do you usually crave and how do you deal with your cravings?