Craving for certain foods is normal and is associated with factors such as hormonal and cultural issues. However, did you know that the desire to eat specific foods could it also be a sign of nutritional deficiencies? That's right, the body sends this kind of signal to show that it needs some nutrients. Learn more about this subject!
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Food cravings and nutrient deficiencies
Nutrition professionals warn that the sudden desire to eat certain foods can be a mechanism of body, in order to awaken the person's will to eat exactly what is missing in their body. So check out what the most common food cravings are and what they might indicate.
- Chocolate
It is common for women to feel like eating chocolate and sweets in general during the premenstrual period. This is because there is a big swing in female hormones before menstruation. With this, the production of serotonin drops, and chocolate is a food that promotes the increase of this substance.
- Tomato
Have you ever seen someone with an uncontrollable urge to eat tomatoes? The desire for this vegetable may be related to low levels of potassium in the body. In this sense, tomatoes, bananas and green vegetables help replenish this nutrient.
- Water
Excessive thirst (polydipsia) can be a sign of dehydration. However, it is necessary to turn on the alert if this occurs, as this is one of the symptoms of diabetes, as well as the abnormal urge to urinate and excessive hunger.
- Candy
The uncontrolled desire to consume sweets in general may be related to the deficiency of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps in the production of serotonin. Therefore, the lack of tryptophan in the body can trigger anxiety, depression and irritation.
hidden hunger
Hidden hunger is, in short, the lack of one or more nutrients. Therefore, no matter how much you eat snacks or certain meals, your body may continue to send signals of hunger because you are feeling a lack of certain nutrients, such as iron, for example, whose lack can cause anemia.
Seek nutritional care
Nutritional deficiencies can compromise the entire functioning of the body, as well as trigger serious illnesses. On the other hand, already installed diseases can also generate these wills. So, seek nutritional follow-up if you identify with any of the topics covered here.