Why craving chocolate

While your body breaks down all carbs into the simple sugars it needs, chances are you have been satisfying these cravings by reaching for the first sugary-sweet, readily available and most advertised snack there is.

This leads us to another reason for those chocolate cravings. Somewhere along the line, you had your first bite of chocolate and it was nothing short of confectionery heaven. The part of your brain nucleus accumbens that is responsible for feelings of reward has clocked chocolate as a treat that instantly spikes those feel-good dopamine levels. And that reward-seeking behavior fuels you to go back for more every time.

And what do we do when we love something? We crave more and more and this is how addictions are developed. Actually, for this reason, sugar addiction has been considered to have similar effects on the brain as illicit drug addictions. Craving does not equal hunger. The two are quite different. Usually, hunger comes in the form of a growling stomach, headaches or a general hollow feeling that gets worse the longer you wait it out. Cravings are a psychological need and usually develop from habit or emotional urgency.

The nutrient content of your meal can be a clear indicator as to why you crave chocolate and other sugary foods after eating. Foods that are high in simple carbs digest quickly and cause a surge in sugar levels that do not last. The body will have trouble adjusting to the sudden fluctuation and crave foods that produce instant sugar.

Also worth noting is that digestion is a process that requires energy and for this reason alone, the body will covet sugars that offer a quick energy increase to carry out the course of digestion. Accordingly, after salty meals the body will naturally desire sugary foods to create this balance.

In many cultures, it is expected to end off a meal with a round of desserts. Because of this, many of us have developed a habit of anticipating sugar even after eating a hearty meal regardless of reaching a state of fullness. If you are accustomed to consuming foods high in sugars and fats after a meal it causes a neurochemical rewiring of your brain to automatically demand these types of food after eating.

You may have convinced yourself that this is just a constant craving, but cravings are occasional. Habit is steady. Now, a habit of eating chocolate every day doesn't have to be a bad thing. We're not suggesting you quit eating chocolate cold turkey. We're not monsters! There's nothing wrong with having a couple of squares of dark chocolate to treat yourself throughout the day. With all the health benefits of raw cacao, you may even be doing yourself a favor by implementing it into your daily diet by way of chocolate with a high percentage of cacao.

Moderation is key. It may help to understand where your habit stems from. Typically, it is cultural. In many cultures, meals are served in three stages: the appetizer, the main course, and, lastly, dessert.

This is commonly considered a well-rounded meal, but following this pattern can form a socially-created habit. Constantly craving chocolate? Magnesium deficiency could be the reason. Written by Emily Whitehead. Posted on July 06, Deficiency or sweet tooth? More than just cravings Despite its prevalence, magnesium deficiency still fails to be top of mind for many.

Bars with 70 percent or more cocoa are the best choice, since they contain less sugar and dairy. Chocolate cravings are super common. Thankfully, there are healthier ways to satisfy them. Opt for dark chocolate with high percentages of cocoa and practice portion control to make the best of your chocolate habit.

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Otherwise, there are a number of healthier ways to get your magnesium fill. Snack on a couple of almonds, add some avocado to your lunch or pack some leafy greens into a filling green smoothie. Some research has suggested that craving chocolate when you have PMS could be due to the antioxidant anandamide.

Rather than overdoing it on chocolate full of refined sugars, you can try satisfying that craving by eating a few squares of dark chocolate. You can also try making the switch to cacao — it is a healthier alternative and it contains many of the same mood-boosting chemicals too.

Sometimes chocolate cravings can hit you on a tough day. Before you know it, you might have eaten half a block! Emotions can impact the way we eat , so rather than reaching for chocolate, try finding a way to distract yourself. While it is often the last thing you feel like doing when you are stressed, exercise can make a big difference. Not only is it a distraction, but exercise can also help lift your endorphin levels and improve your mood.

Even taking a short walk can help shift your perspective, clear your head and leave you feeling energised again. When you nourish your body with foods that help provide it with energy, you should notice you begin to have less cravings for chocolate. Ladies, I really hope these suggestions are helpful.

Just be mindful of some of the reasons you might be getting cravings, and see if you can identify any patterns. As you become more aware of your behaviour, it becomes easier to make lifestyle changes. Strict adherence to the nutrition and exercise guide are required for best results.