Understand cravings.
nutrition and cravings
Myths and facts
Craving and brain
The Craving circle
100

What is a craving in the context of substance abuse recovery?

A strong desire or urge to use a substance.

100

Name a fruit that helps reduce sugar cravings and provides a healthy snack option.

Apples

100

True or False: Cravings Can Be Seasonal

True-Research has shown that cravings for certain substances, like alcohol or sugary foods, can increase during certain times of the year, such as holidays or colder months, due to associated social activities and comfort-seeking behaviors.

100

Which neurotransmitter is often associated with pleasure and reward?

Dopamine

100

this is the part of the craving cycle where we should start to use healthy coping skills. 





at the very beginning / the obsession phase /as soon as possible

200

Name a common physical symptom of cravings.

Sweating or increased heart rate.

200

What is a type of drink that can help curb alcohol cravings?

Herbal tea.

200

True or False: Exercise as a Craving Buster

True-Physical activity can significantly reduce cravings by releasing endorphins and reducing stress. Even short bursts of exercise, like a brisk walk, can help manage cravings effectively.

200

What part of the brain is responsible for decision-making and impulse control?

The prefrontal cortex.

200

this is part of the craving cycle that includes your mental state, inability to stop thinking about using and is recurrent and persistent

obsession

300

What part of the brain is primarily involved in cravings?

The reward system or limbic system.

300

Identify a nutrient that helps stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce cravings.

Fiber

300

True or False: Drinking coffee can reduce cravings.

False. Caffeine can sometimes increase anxiety and cravings.

300

Name the brain's ability to reorganize itself and form new neural connections.

Neuroplasticity

300

this is part of the craving cycle that includes your emotional state, results in strong irrational urge to use and thinking with emotion

compulsion

400

How long do typical cravings last?

Usually 15-30 minutes.

400

Name a type of food rich in Omega-3 fatty acids that supports brain health.

Salmon or flaxseeds.

400

True or False: Genetics can play a role in the types and intensity of cravings people experience. 

True. Variations in the DRD2 gene, which affects dopamine receptors, can influence the likelihood of developing certain cravings and addictions.

400

How long can it take for the brain to start recovering from addiction?

It can start within a few weeks, but full recovery can take months to years.

400

this is the part of the craving cycle that is caused by brain chemistry imbalances, never totally goes away and returns when recovery is neglected.

physical craving

500

What is the difference between a CRAVING and an URGE

Craving - desire to HAVE something

Urge - desire to DO something

500

Explain how hydration affects cravings.

Staying hydrated can reduce feelings of hunger and cravings, as thirst is sometimes mistaken for hunger.

500

True or False: Cravings will never go away completely.

False. While cravings may persist, they can become less frequent and intense over time with proper management.

500

What part of the brain is involved in memory and conditioning related to cravings?

The hippocampus.

500

this is the part of the craving cycle is ritualized and habitual and creates a mental state that justifies drug use as well as what actions we take to get drugs.

drug seeking behavior

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