Could your dietary desires be a sign that your body is out of balance?
Hankering for a burger? Or maybe you can’t stop thinking about chocolate. As many as 97%* of women yearn for certain foods, and it’s rarely a salad or glass of water we’re after. But it’s important that you don’t feel guilty about these cravings, says nutritionist Dr Marilyn Glenville. ‘They’re a biochemical urge that is almost impossible to control by mind power alone. Your body is demanding a particular type of food because it has a need for it.’
Our experts reveal the likely reasons for these yearnings and how to satisfy them – without filling up on junk food.
Cheese
WHY? Is pizza or a gooey cheese toastie calling your name? ‘Craving cheese may indicate a fatty-acid deficiency (most likely omega-3),’ says nutritionist Emma Ross. ‘Symptoms to look out for include dry or scaly skin, small lumps on the back of your arms, dry eyes and excess earwax.’
REPLACE WITH
Oily fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds or walnuts – these are all rich sources of healthy, essential fatty acids.
Red meat
WHY? A craving for red meat could be an indication that your iron levels are running low. ‘This is the most common deficiency in women and can lead to anaemia,’ says nutrition expert Penny Weston.
REPLACE WITH Beans, legumes, dark leafy greens and dried fruit. ‘Mixing sources of iron with vitamin C can help the body’s iron absorption, so try including bell peppers and tomatoes too,’ says Penny.
Coffee
WHY? You may be tired or low in energy and in need of a pick-me-up. Or you may have developed a dependence on caffeine – meaning that if you drink coffee every day, you’ll need to keep drinking it to get the same hit.
REPLACE WITH Green tea. It contains some caffeine, but much less than coffee. Importantly, it’s rich in theanine, an amino acid known to reduce anxiety and help boost concentration and focus.
Chocolate
WHY? ‘It might be a sign of a magnesium deficiency,’ says Emma. ‘You’re more at risk of this during the menopause.’ Magnesium plays a part in bone health, preventing inflammation, maintaining healthy blood pressure, as well as easing anxiety, balancing the nervous system and aiding restful sleep.
REPLACE WITH Raw cacao nibs, pulses, nuts or seeds will deliver magnesium without a sugar hit.
Crisps
