Food Cravings Decoded

If you’re craving salt – you could actually need some calcium...

We all experience food cravings from time to time – and it’s usually your body trying to tell you something. Here are some cravings - decoded:

• Salt – you might be low on minerals like calcium, iron and potassium – that can trigger salt cravings.

• Chocolate – you’re probably in need of a quick lift or mood boost – it’s a natural anti-depressant.

• Spicy food – you’d like to catch a buzz. Spicy food provides a rush – to your blood pressure, heart rate and breathing.

• Sweets – you could need a shot of energy – or a little attention. People tend to eat sweets when they want to feel special.

Craving salty and sweet together is pretty common. Our bodies need glucose and sodium to function properly – and if we’re low that craving kicks in. Some of us will even be standoffish until we get that fix.

Source: Alad R. Hirsch, author of “What Flavor Is Your Personality?”