Do you experience cravings? If so, you’re not alone – many of my clients do, too. But what often surprises them is learning that not all cravings are a signal that the body needs food. In fact, cravings can stem from a variety of causes, some of which have nothing to do with hunger. Let’s explore what your cravings are trying to tell you.

Our bodies are incredibly intelligent, constantly working to maintain balance. Your heart beats, your lungs breathe, and your body knows when to sleep and wake – all without conscious effort.

Cravings are another way your body communicates with you, but instead of automatically reaching for a snack, I encourage you to pause and listen. Ask yourself: What does my body really want, and why?

By deconstructing your cravings, you can uncover their true cause and respond in a way that actually meets your body’s needs. Let’s explore some of the most common reasons behind cravings.

Dehydration

Many cravings are actually a sign of dehydration rather than hunger. In fact, even headaches can be a symptom of not drinking enough water. The next time a craving strikes, try drinking a full glass of water and giving your body time to respond. You may find that the craving disappears.

Lack Of “Primary Food”

Primary food refers to the aspects of life that nourish you beyond what’s on your plate—things like relationships, career fulfillment, movement, and spirituality.

• Have you ever turned to comfort food when feeling lonely?
• Do you find yourself snacking out of boredom or stress at work?
• Have you ever craved something sweet when life felt dull or uninspired?

If so, your cravings might be signaling an emotional or lifestyle imbalance rather than a physical need for food. Nourishing yourself in non-food ways through connection, purpose, and self-care can reduce emotional eating.

Food Energetics

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, foods have energetic qualities that affect how the body feels. Some foods are contracting (warming and grounding), while others are expanding (cooling and light).

• Hearty foods like soups, root vegetables, and meats contract the body and are naturally more appealing in colder months.
• Lighter foods like raw fruits, salads, and sweets expand the body and are often craved in warmer seasons.

Ever felt stuffed after a big steak and potato dinner but still wanted dessert? That’s your body seeking balance between contraction and expansion.

Seasonal Cravings

Your body naturally craves foods that align with the seasons.

• In spring, the body is ready to detox and may crave leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, or citrus.
• In winter, you may desire warm, hearty meals for comfort and warmth.
• Certain cravings can also be tied to cultural or family traditions—think of the holiday foods you look forward to every year!

By tuning into these seasonal shifts, you can work with your body instead of against it.

Nutrient Deficiencies

Sometimes, cravings are the body’s way of asking for specific nutrients.

• Craving chocolate? You might be low in magnesium. Choose dark chocolate for a healthier source!
• Craving salt? Your body could need more sodium, but the source matters. Choose Himalayan or unrefined sea salt over processed, iodized table salt, which can actually deplete other minerals.

By identifying and addressing deficiencies, you can nourish your body properly and reduce unnecessary cravings.

Hormonal Shifts

Fluctuations in hormones – whether due to a woman’s cycle, pregnancy, or stress – can trigger cravings. We’ve all heard about unusual pregnancy cravings (mine was watermelon, which makes sense in the heat of an El Paso summer).

But before assuming that hormones are to blame, ask yourself: Is my body asking for something beyond food? Sometimes, cravings signal a need for rest, emotional connection, or even just a moment of joy. These needs can be driven by hormones or by neurotransmitter imbalances.

Listening To Your Cravings

Many people see cravings as a sign of weakness, but they are actually powerful messages from your body. Instead of suppressing or ignoring them, become a student of your cravings. Ask yourself:

• Am I thirsty or do I have a headache? Try water first.
• Am I missing fulfillment in an area of life? Seek nourishment through relationships.
• Is my body looking for balance? Consider the season and food energetics.
• Am I low in key nutrients? Choose whole, nutrient-rich options.
• Are my hormones shifting? Tune in and respond with self-care.

Sometimes, you might just need a hug or a heartfelt conversation instead of a snack.

By understanding why cravings happen, you can respond in a way that truly nourishes your body – your whole being – beyond food.