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Why do people get food cravings?

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Nyakundi Report

Newsroom 1 min read

This archive report was first published on 11 December 2019.

Food cravings are a common phenomenon that affects many people. According to research, a food craving is an intense desire for a specific food, often triggered by the brain's release of feel-good hormones in response to foods rich in fats and sugars.

On December 11, 2019, a study found that these foods, such as processed foods, are often craved because they activate the brain's reward and memory centers, making us associate them with pleasure.

However, cravings can also be triggered by external factors such as depression, fatigue, and sleep deprivation. When we are under stress, our bodies crave carbohydrates as these boost serotonin levels, which has a calming effect.

Interestingly, while many people believe that food cravings are indicative of a physical deficiency, there is no scientific evidence to prove it, apart from salt cravings. A sodium deficiency will leave you with a strong urge to consume foods high in salt.

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