There is a biological and physiologic connection to cravings.
When our bodies have burned up the food in our stomachs and our blood sugar and insulin levels begin to drop, the hormone, ghrelin communicates with the hypothalamus in the brain.
The hypothalamus, housed in the deep center portion of our brain cavity, regulates our basic body functions such as thirst, sleep and sex drive. Once it receives the message, delivered by ghrelin, that we need to eat something to keep our bodies running, the hypothalamus triggers the release of neuropeptide Y, which stimulates our appetites.
Cravings for foods high in fat and calories are linked to our brains.
Fatty, sugary foods release chemicals called opioids into our bloodstream. Opioids bind to receptors in our brains and give us feelings of pleasure and even mild euphoria.
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Hello jasmine_writer,
There is a biological and physiologic connection to cravings.
When our bodies have burned up the food in our stomachs and our blood sugar and insulin levels begin to drop, the hormone, ghrelin communicates with the hypothalamus in the brain.
The hypothalamus, housed in the deep center portion of our brain cavity, regulates our basic body functions such as thirst, sleep and sex drive. Once it receives the message, delivered by ghrelin, that we need to eat something to keep our bodies running, the hypothalamus triggers the release of neuropeptide Y, which stimulates our appetites.
Cravings for foods high in fat and calories are linked to our brains.
Fatty, sugary foods release chemicals called opioids into our bloodstream. Opioids bind to receptors in our brains and give us feelings of pleasure and even mild euphoria.
Thanks for sharing,
May 23, 2016 - 8:30amMaryann
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