Why do I crave carbs?

Everybody needs carbohydrates to fuel their body. Carbs are one of the three macronutrients that are essential for the body. The body uses glucose as its primary energy source, and carbohydrates provide lots of glucose molecules for your cells to break down.

When we think of "craving carbs" it is often the refined-carbs we are reaching for, including pastries or potato chips. Refined-carbs tend to be stripped of much of their nutritional value and can be packed full of saturated fats and calories.

Reasons why you’re craving carbs

There are many reasons why you might be craving more carbs than usual. Here are some of the most common causes for intense carb cravings:

• Your blood sugar is too low. When your blood glucose drops, carbs are the body’s top priority.
• You’re telling yourself that you can’t have them. When you tell yourself you aren’t allowed to eat certain foods, it can cause your brain to produce a stress response that triggers cravings.
• You’re extra stressed. When you’re stressed, cortisol gets released, and this can result in cravings for sugar.
• You’re feeling sad. For many, carb-rich foods are comforting and can cause the production of serotonin in the brain.

How to make healthier choices

There are lots of great options when you’re craving carbs. You don’t need to reach for the cookies, cakes and candies.

When you are craving carbohydrates, try to consume healthier carbs to fuel your body and reduce the intensity of your cravings. Healthier carbs include:

• Whole grains, such as oats, quinoa, couscous, buckwheat
• Sugary fruits, such as bananas and apples
• Starchy vegetables, such as white potatoes, sweet potatoes, parsnips, and turnips

Managing your protein and healthy fat intake is also important, as both will help you to feel more satiated throughout the day and possibly reduce your carb cravings. Proteins and healthy fats can also help to balance out your energy levels, so your blood glucose doesn’t get too low.