by Updated on September 25, 2024 by Neelam Singh
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A video on social media talks about how various nutritional deficiencies cause food cravings. We checked facts and found that the claim was true Mostly false.
The Claim
In a video on social media, dietician Mehaar Bakshihi explains how various nutritional deficiencies lead to food cravings. For example, many teenagers and school-aged children may eat chalk or mud, which indicates iron and zinc deficiencies. However, cravings for other foods often do not have clear links to specific nutrient deficiencies.
Check Facts
Does a chocolate craving mean you are magnesium deficient?
A 1991 study notes that while there are some correlations between chocolate cravings and preferences for sweet or other sensory foods, these do not strongly support the idea that cravings are caused by a lack of certain nutrients such as magnesium or theobromine.
In short, chocolate cravings don’t necessarily mean you’re magnesium deficient. Instead, the desire for chocolate appears to be more linked to its sensory qualities and possibly hormonal factors, rather than a nutritional deficiency.
We asked Dr. Mohit Sandhu, BAMS|CAD|CAC|PGDAKS| Gurgaon, about the same and he replied“In Ayurveda, cravings, including those for chocolate, are not interpreted in terms of specific nutritional deficiencies such as magnesium, as in modern nutrition. Instead, Ayurveda sees cravings as symptoms of an imbalance in the doshas, especially related to emotional and mental states.
Does craving french fries mean you’re sodium deficient?
No to some extent. Research in 2015 explains how a lack of sodium (salt) can have a profound effect on our psychology and behaviour. When animals (including humans) don’t get enough sodium, they start to crave fatty foods and value salt more. This craving is linked to specific areas in the brain that help detect sodium levels and stimulate the desire for fatty substances.
The study states that sodium deficiency not only causes cravings but can also lead to trouble concentrating, fatigue, and even depression-like feelings. He suggests that certain brain regions may play a role in these emotions, particularly in how they respond to piety and reward. In some cases, however, salt cravings can lead to sodium deficiencies or low blood sodium levels. But it is worth noting that sodium deficiencies are quite rare. In fact, it is more typical to consume too much sodium, especially in developed regions. So, just because you crave salty foods, that doesn’t automatically indicate that you have a sodium deficiency.
Does sugar cravings mean you are chromium deficient?
Craving sugar does not necessarily mean you are chromium deficient. Although chromium plays a role in insulin action and may influence sugar metabolism, cravings can arise from various factors, such as emotional triggers, dietary habits, or imbalances in blood sugar levels. Some studies suggest that chromium supplementation may help reduce sugar cravings, but the evidence is mixed as a 2017 meta-analysis found that chromium supplementation had no significant effect on fasting glucose levels in both diabetic and non-diabetic groups. suggesting that it provides little benefit to populations unlikely to be chromium deficient. It is essential to consider the wider context of your diet and lifestyle. If you crave sugar often, it may be beneficial to consider your overall nutrition and energy levels.
“High sugar cravings are often caused by emotional factors and eating habits. To combat these cravings we need an approach that encourages balanced nutrition that allows us to better understand the body’s signals,” explains Dr Krutika Ingle, Consultant Diabetologist and Physician, Sugar.fit, Saifee Healthcare, Mumbai.
We consulted the dr. Shalin Nagori, MBBS, MD, from Halol, Gujarat. He mentioned that he is familiar with Pica but has not come across cases of sugar diets associated with chromium deficiency. It is important to explain information like this; otherwise, there is a risk that people will make people aware of deficiencies that they may not actually have.”
Do cravings for chalk or mud indicate iron or zinc deficiencies?
Yes, to a certain extent. The contraction of non-food items such as chalk or mud can indicate a condition called Pica, which is often related to nutritional deficiencies. Specifically, chalk craving may suggest a deficiency in iron or zinc, as these minerals play a vital role in the functioning of the body. Similarly, cravings for mud are commonly associated with iron deficiency, as some people may seek unusual substances to compensate for a lack of nutrients. While these cravings can be a sign of underlying health issues, they can also stem from psychological factors. If you feel such cravings, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide proper testing and guidance on dietary adjustments. Addressing potential deficiencies can help restore balance and improve overall health. Always prioritize a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients to support your well-being.
We previously checked out a similar unscientific claim where the claimant says that tapping on the forehead stops food cravings.
