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Written by Navneet Kaur, M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics

Diet

Why You’re Craving Junk Food & How to Beat It!

Do you often wonder, all of a sudden, why you have junk food cravings and what does it actually mean? Let's find out. 

Introduction

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Poor sleep increases ghrelin (a hunger hormone), leading you to crave carbs.

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Poor Sleep

Skipping meals or eating imbalanced diets often leads to binge moments and overeating. 

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Skipping Meals 

Stress boosts cortisol, which makes your brain yearn for comfort foods, which are mostly sugary or salty junk foods. 

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Stress

Ultra-processed foods flood your brain with dopamine, making them addictive, and you crave them again and again.

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Processed Foods

Thirst often disguises itself as hunger; always hydrate first. Opt for buttermilk, coconut water, or lemon water. 

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Dehydration

Combat cravings with protein-rich mini-meals every 4 hours; it will help you stay full. 

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How to Manage Cravings?

Beat emotional eating using breathing, journaling, a quick walk or drinking some water. 

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What About Emotional Eating?

Prioritize 7–8 hours of sleep to reset hunger and satiety hormones.

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Good Sleep

Cravings signal deeper needs; learn when to change your habits, not just seize willpower. Stock healthier treats, such as makhana, fresh fruit, and dark chocolate squares.

Conclusion

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