We have all been craving for unhealthy foods at some point in our lives, but even after eating them, the strong desire does not end.

Well, according to scientists, these cravings are a result of a deficiency in a certain mineral in the body. However, only by acquiring minerals from natural sources can we hope to fight the cravings.

Now, we will reveal the meaning of your food cravings:

Sugary foods: chromium, carbon, phosphorus, sulfur and/or tryptophan

The cravings for sugary foods can be caused by a deficiency in more nutrients: chromium (it regulates blood sugar levels), carbon (one of the elements from which sugar is made), phosphorus (it supports the production of energy), sulfur (needed for detoxification) and tryptophan (a serotonin regulator). To stop these cravings, you need to improve your diet.

Chocolate: magnesium

Magnesium deficiency is very common in the Western world, and it is involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including reactions linked to relaxation. Therefore, the first signs of magnesium deficiency include insomnia, irritability, anxiety, and high blood pressure.

A small chocolate bar contains a small amount of magnesium due to the cacao content, so we feel relaxed after eating it. Yet, to optimize your magnesium levels, you should consume beans, fish, seeds, nuts, dark leafy greens, and blackstrap molasses and you will successfully end the chocolate cravings.

Refined carbohydrates: nitrogen

If you crave for refined carbs like bread or pasta, you might lack nitrogen in the body. These compounds are a vital component of nucleic acids and protein. To correct this deficiency you should consume fruits and veggies rich in nitrogen. 

Ice: iron

Even though this is not very common, it is a clear sign of iron deficiency, and to optimize the levels of this mineral in the body, make sure you consume sea vegetables, meat, leafy greens, and blackstrap molasses.

Salty foods: chloride and/or silicon

You need to increase the intake of seeds, nuts, and fish. 

Oily and fatty foods: calcium

Many people crave for fatty foods just because they lack enough calcium in the body. In this case, consume more cheese, turnip greens, broccoli, and raw milk.

Moreover, Healthline suggests the following strategies as an effective way to prevent food cravings:

-Drinking water before meals may reduce cravings and appetite, as well as help with weight loss.

-Eating more protein may reduce your appetite and keep you from overeating.

-Try to distance yourself from the craving by chewing gum, going on a walk or taking a shower.

-Planning your meals for the day or upcoming week eliminates spontaneity and uncertainty, both of which can cause cravings.

-Hunger is a big reason for cravings. Avoid extreme hunger by always having a healthy snack ready.

-Being under stress may induce cravings, eating and weight gain, especially in women.

-Sleep deprivation may disrupt normal fluctuations in appetite hormones, leading to cravings and poor appetite control.

-- Eating proper meals helps prevent hunger and cravings, while also ensuring that your body gets the nutrients it needs.

-- Eating before you go to the supermarket helps reduce the risk of unwanted cravings and impulsive buying.

Sources:
www.ruled.me
eatwiseteens.org
www.huffingtonpost.com
www.tandurust.com