Cravings: a clue to imbalance

I tell my clients that cravings aren't a sign of weak willpower. They're information. Often your body is asking for something, and it's worth getting curious about what.

Common clues:

• Sugar cravings often show up when meals are low in protein, you've gone too long without eating, or you're short on sleep
• Salty cravings can follow a sweaty workout, dehydration or a stressful stretch
• Chocolate cravings are sometimes a sign you want comfort, a break or simply something you enjoy
• Late-night snacking is often linked to under-eating earlier in the day

Try this: the next time a craving hits, drink a glass of water and ask, "When did I last eat, and how did I sleep?" If you still want it, enjoy a satisfying portion without guilt.