Most of us are familiar with cravings. Our body often craves a sweet snack like chocolate and others something salty like chips or cheese. These wishes convey different messages.
The fat and salt in cheese are attractive to our body. There is nothing wrong with tasting a dose of cheese, the problem appears when you feel an irresistible desire outside of meal times. It is typical to open the refrigerator and attack the cheese at any time of the day. Whether it’s a piece of Brie or a slice of Gouda, the desire to put them in your mouth can be due to several reasons.
1. to obtain calcium and protein
Cheese is not only delicious, but also a source of valuable nutrients such as calcium, protein and vitamin B12.
An increased need for these nutrients can lead to increased cheese cravings. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, in particular, tend to have higher calcium and protein needs, which may explain why many of them experience increased cheese cravings during this time.
Cheese is rich in the amino acid tryptophannecessary to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is associated with well-being. When you have low serotonin levels, you may experience mood swings and difficulty sleeping. In such cases, the cheese craving can be seen as the body’s unconscious attempt to increase serotonin levels. Instead of resorting to cheese you can resort to banana and nuts, for example.
To avoid these desires that can unbalance the calorie balance, try to make each of the three meals of the day balanced and include enough proteins, minerals and vitamins. If you eat a plant-based diet, remember that it is necessary to supplement vitamin B12.
2. Due to zinc and magnesium deficiency
Another reason for cheese cravings could be lack of certain minerals. For example, cheese contains zinc and magnesium, which are important for the body.
A zinc deficiency can lead to a weakened immune system and poor wound healing, while a magnesium deficiency can cause muscle cramps and fatigue. So, If your body is deficient in these minerals, you could try to compensate by eating cheese.
Healthier sources of zinc than cheese are pumpkin seeds and other seeds and minerals. As for magnesium, you can find it in green leaves, almonds or legumes.
3. Cheese is an emotional comfort
In addition to physiological reasons, cheese cravings can also be due to psychological causes. Cheese is a food that can be associated with positive emotions and memories.
When you are stressed or emotionally overwhelmed, The craving for cheese can act as a kind of comfort to make you feel better.
A piece of cheese from time to time doesn’t hurt to comfort the soul. However, when you are anxious, you must look for solutions to avoid falling into unhealthy eating habits. Can learn to manage your time and your emotions, through meditation and relaxation techniques.
Avoid cravings, pay attention to these tips
Sometimes cravings for cheese or other snacks can be hard to resist. But With a few simple tips you can try to avoid uncontrollable desires and maintain a healthy diet:
1. Balanced meals
Make sure you consume regularly Balanced meals that are rich in protein, fiber and healthy fats.
These nutrients ensure a long-lasting feeling of satiety and help prevent cravings. Be sure to include fruits and vegetables in your meals to get important vitamins and minerals.
The so-called Harvard University plate is a very understandable and practical guide for deciding the composition of daily menus.
2. Drink enough
Sometimes thirst can be perceived as hunger. Therefore, Drink enough water throughout the day to keep your fluid levels balanced.
When you feel like eating something, drink a glass of water first and wait a few minutes to see if the craving disappears. As a general rule, you should drink at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day.
3. healthy snacks
If cravings still persist, it’s helpful to have healthy snack alternatives on hand. For example, grab a handful of nuts, a piece of fruit, or some vegetable sticks with hummus. These options are rich in nutrients and satisfy hunger in a healthy way.