What Your Cravings Are Really Trying to Tell You
Cravings often get a bad reputation.
We’re told they’re a sign of weakness. A lack of willpower. Something to overcome, ignore, or push through.
But what if your cravings were never the problem? What if they were actually messages from your body—subtle signals asking you to listen a little more closely?
The truth is: your body is always communicating with you. And when you slow down enough to hear her, you begin to understand that cravings aren't sabotage. They're feedback.
Let’s explore what your cravings might really be saying—and how you can start responding with nourishment instead of guilt.
Craving Sugar?
You’re not alone. Craving sweets—especially in the afternoon or evening—is incredibly common. But sugar cravings often mask deeper needs.
What your body might be asking for:
More calories overall. Have you eaten enough nourishing food today? Skipped meals or under-eating can leave your body searching for fast energy.
Quick energy from glucose. If you’re tired, over-caffeinated, or skipping carbs, your brain may start calling for sugar.
Comfort or reward. Sugar lights up the brain’s pleasure centers. Are you seeking soothing or a moment of joy?
Try this instead:
Add slow-digesting carbs and protein to your meals to stay steady
Create small moments of pleasure that don’t revolve around food (a walk, a candle, a warm bath)
Eat something sweet if it feels good—but do it mindfully, not mindlessly
Craving Salt or Crunch?
Think chips, fries, crackers—salty, crunchy foods that hit fast and feel satisfying in the moment.
What your body might be asking for:
Stress release. Crunchy foods can help release jaw tension and soothe anxiety. Are you holding something in?
Minerals. Salt cravings could mean you need more electrolytes, especially after sweating or a stressful day.
Grounding. Salty foods can make you feel more rooted if you're energetically scattered or depleted.
Try this instead:
Sip on water with a pinch of mineral salt or lemon
Add grounding foods like root vegetables or warm brothy meals
Take a few deep, open-mouth exhales to physically release tension
Craving Wine or a Nightcap?
Reaching for a glass of wine at the end of the day is common—and often tied to emotion more than desire.
What your body might be asking for:
Nervous system down-regulation. Wine signals “pause.” Is there another ritual you can create to transition from go-mode to rest?
Emotional decompression. If you're craving connection or stillness, the wine might be your placeholder.
Blood sugar balance. Evening alcohol cravings can also stem from imbalanced meals earlier in the day.
Try this instead:
Herbal tea, a magnesium mocktail, or simply time alone to unwind
Journaling, stretching, or turning the lights down and playing music
Adding healthy fat and protein to dinner to stabilize your evening energy
Craving Heavier Foods (Like Pizza or Pasta)?
Carb-dense, comfort-heavy meals are often signs your body is craving something deeper—especially if you’re used to high output or stress.
What your body might be asking for:
Grounding. Dense, warm meals help regulate a frazzled nervous system
Slow energy. If you’ve been under-eating carbs or over-exercising, your body might be trying to catch up
Emotional comfort. Is there a deeper desire for safety, softness, or connection?
Try this instead:
Create a cozy, home-cooked version of what you crave (think: roasted veggie pasta with olive oil and garlic)
Check in with your body: Are you depleted, lonely, or simply under-fueled?
Allow yourself to eat and enjoy—but bring your full presence to the meal
What if you actually listened to your craving?
Imagine how different your wellness journey would feel if you responded to cravings with curiosity instead of criticism. If you paused to ask:
“What is my body asking for right now?”
“What am I really hungry for?”
“What would feel good after this moment?”
Cravings aren’t a problem to fix. They’re a language to learn. And learning to listen to your body is one of the most powerful acts of self-trust you can build.
My tips
When a craving arises:
Pause. Take a deep breath.
Ask. “Is this physical hunger or emotional hunger?”
Notice. Are you tired, stressed, undernourished, lonely, bored, or overwhelmed?
Choose. Nourish your body—or your soul—with something that truly supports you.
No shame. No rules. Just connection.
You are not weak because you crave.
You are not “off track” because you want comfort.
You are a woman, living in a rhythmic body that’s asking you to pay attention.
Listen. Support yourself gently. Let your cravings guide you back into relationship with your body.
