We all know the body needs certain vitamins, fibers, and other nutrients which it mines from the food you provide it. When I'm running low on a particular nutrient, my body will crave food that is high in that nutrient. A common example for anyone is that after running in the heat you want water—you don't want koolaid, or beer or soda. I struggle with iron deficiency anemia, and when my iron levels drop I have strong cravings for beef—steak, hamburgers, roast beef sandwiches, etc. Similarly, I crave oranges or tomatoes when my vitamin C levels are low. I also find myself not wanting foods I normally love when I've consumed too much of a particular ingredient (for example not wanting cake if I've had too much sugar).
One of my cardinal rules in terms of watching what I eat to make sure I'm giving my body enough of what it needs without giving it too much, is to listen to my stomach's cravings. Have you ever noticed your favorite food suddenly tasted funny and you didn't actually want it? I take note when Pepsi suddenly tastes to sweet to me, and I cut back may be even stop drinking them for awhile. I take note when all I want are meals containing beef. Not only does this help me identify when I'm bordering on Anemia, but it helps me to keep a balanced diet.
So, next time you find yourself craving something constantly, take a minute to re-evaluate your eating habits, and make sure you're getting everything you need.
