Food Cravings Basics
What is a craving?
A strong urge to eat a specific type of food, even when you’re not hungry
Why do emotions like stress or boredom trigger cravings?
The brain seeks comfort and releases chemicals like dopamine that temporarily improve mood.
What brain chemical is released when we eat pleasurable foods?
Dopamine
How do habits influence cravings?
Repeated behaviors link cravings to routines, making them automatic
How does hunger differ from cravings?
Hunger is a physical need for food, builds gradually, and almost any food can satisfy it. Cravings are sudden, emotional, and usually for specific foods.
Which types of foods are most commonly craved?
Sweet, salty, or high-fat foods
What is emotional eating?
Eating to cope with feelings instead of real hunger.
Which part of the brain controls hunger signals?
The hypothalamus
How can environmental cues trigger cravings?
Seeing, smelling, or being around certain foods can make you crave them
Name a physical sign of true hunger.
Stomach growling, weakness, or low energy
Which hormone signals your body that it’s time to eat?
Ghrelin
Why are comfort foods linked to positive emotions?
They are often connected to happy memories or family traditions
Which brain system connects cravings to mood and memories?
The limbic system
How do advertisements increase cravings?
They use bright colors, catchy slogans, and emotional appeals to grab attention
What triggers cravings besides hunger?
Emotions, stress, memories, environment, and habits.
What hormone helps your body feel full and controls appetite?
Leptin
How can emotional cravings turn into habits?
Repeatedly eating for emotional reasons strengthens habits that are hard to break.
How do repeated cravings affect the brain?
They create neural pathways that make urges stronger and harder to resist
How can you reduce unwanted cravings at home?
Keep tempting foods out of sight or replace them with healthier options
Why is it important to recognize the difference between hunger and cravings?
It helps you make healthier eating choices and avoid overeating.
Why is understanding cravings helpful?
It helps you manage cravings and make healthier choices
Name some healthy way to cope with emotional cravings.
Exercise, talking to someone, or another positive activity.
Which stress hormone can increase cravings for sugary or fatty foods?
Cortisol
How can social settings affect cravings?
Peer pressure and food shared at gatherings can make cravings stronger
Name 4 strategy to manage cravings.
Mindful eating, healthy alternatives, keeping busy, or planning meals ahead.