We have all given in to cravings at one point of time or the other. A craving for comfort foods can happen even after a person has just eaten. Stress and hormones manage to convince our brain that we are hungry even if we are full. This can lead us to overload on unnecessary high-calorie and fatty foods.
Training the brain to spot the difference cravings and true hunger can help avoid unnecessary weight gain but most importantly, gain better control and understanding over what the body lacks and needs.
THE MORE YOU KNOW
Here’s a breakdown of how cravings or brain hunger is different from true, stomach hunger.
Stomach Hunger
This is real hunger. This feeling goes away only after you eat something.
When we feel true hunger, we do not crave for any one food in particular. We only feel the simple need to eat.
True hunger is accompanied by a host of physical sensations: stomach growling and tightness or a fall in concentration and energy.
Extreme hunger can cause irritability, chilliness and shakiness as well.
Cravings / Brain Hunger
Cravings are always a want for very specific types of foods like sweets, chocolates, salty or fatty foods.
The sensation usually lasts for only a small amount of time.
There are no physical indications that you are hungry; no stomach growling, no fall in concentration and energy, no chilliness.
It is mainly caused by stress, negative emotions or due to hormonal imbalances in some cases.
BEATING THOSE CRAVINGS
Emotions and stress play huge factors in causing cravings. But cravings need not master us. It can be controlled in easy, effective steps:
If you feel hungry and you are not sure whether it’s a craving or true hunger, the first thing you can do is drink water and give it some time.
The mind gives out very similar signals for both hunger and thirst. Satisfying your thirst first gives you some time to eliminate the confusion between hunger and cravings.
If you still feel hungry after you drink water and you particularly notice physical symptoms like stomach tightness and loss of concentration, then you can conclude that this is true hunger. Eat your meal and eat healthy.
In case the feeling of hunger goes away some time after you drink water, then this was a craving for maybe a very specific type of food.
When such cravings occur and you identify that this is a craving, try taking a break from your work. De-stress yourself by taking walks, reading or socializing with people you like. This helps clear your mind and prevents further sensations of cravings.
Stay hydrated, eat healthy and beat those cravings!
