How Stress Might Be Driving Your Food Cravings – And What You Can Do About It

Stress is a common part of modern life, impacting not only our mental well-being but also our eating habits.When we experience stress, our body releases cortisol, also known as the “fight or flight” hormone that prepares us to face the threat.While cortisol can be helpful in short bursts, chronic stress can increase our desire for energy-dense foods, often in the form of sugary or high-fat snacks, which provide temporary relief but can lead to a repeating cycle.

Why Do We Crave Sugar Under Stress?

Cortisol is linked with our energy regulation, hence why there is a natural amount produced in the morning to get you going for the day. When cortisol is elevated, your body looks for quick sources of energy, often in the form of sugar or processed carbohydrates. While these foods can provide a temporary boost, they may quickly lead to a crash in energy, leaving you tired and craving more. This craving cycle can become self-sustaining, especially as our nervous system doesn’t differentiate between various types of stress, whether it’s a demanding email or running from a tiger.

Manage your cravings with these 3 simple changes:

1. Balance blood sugar:
   One of the most effective ways to break the craving cycle is to maintain steady blood sugar levels. Start by eating whole foods that include a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fibre. This helps to support steady energy levels and reduces the temptation for quick fixes like sugary snacks. Starting your day with a protein packed, blood sugar balanced breakfast is the best way to have greater control over your cravings later in the day.

    

   Additionally, Berberine + Ashwagandha is a herbal combination that helps support healthy blood sugar balance. Ashwagandha relieves symptoms of stress, and helps in the management of food cravings.
   
   
2. Adopt a stress management practice specific to you:
   To address the root of the problem, stress, it’s important to incorporate daily stress-reducing practices. Add activities such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and gentle exercise (like yoga) into your daily routine. Finding a practice that you enjoy can help create consistency, even if it’s just for 10 minutes a day.

    

3. Stay hydrated:
   Dehydration may increase both stress and cravings. Aim to drink plenty of water (between 2L-3L depending on your needs) throughout the day. Consider adding some celtic salt or Wanderlust Herbal Liquid to sip on, with each herbal liquid providing additional health support. You can also add in herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint to enhance flavour.

Making these small adjustments may reduce the frequency of stress-related cravings. For added support, Wanderlust’s Berberine + Ashwagandha blend is designed to help maintain healthy blood sugar and calm the nervous system, giving your body the support it needs in times of stress.

Explore Blood Sugar & Stress Support

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