Are you yearning for some beans? Despite your efforts to resist, the desire for those delicious legumes is overwhelming.
There could be several factors contributing to your bean craving, such as vitamin deficiencies, insufficient carb intake, or high stress levels. It’s important to note that you shouldn’t feel guilty about this craving, as it may have legitimate causes.
In this post, we will discuss the top 10 biological reasons why you might be experiencing intense bean cravings, as well as their impact on your health. Moreover, you’ll discover strategies to alleviate the craving when it arises again.
By the end of this article, you will not only comprehend why you crave beans so fiercely, but you’ll also have the tools to tackle the craving effectively.
10 Reasons Why You’re Craving Beans
Discover these 10 reasons why you may be craving beans – they’re intriguing and relatable.
1. You Love Beans
One simple reason you may be craving beans is that you simply love them! They’re a tasty and versatile food that can be prepared in many different ways, making them a satisfying addition to many meals.
2. You May Be Pregnant
If you are a woman and experiencing a sudden and intense craving for beans, it could be a sign of pregnancy. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to unusual food cravings, and beans may provide a satisfying source of protein and fiber for expectant mothers.
However, if you suspect you may be pregnant, it is important to take a pregnancy test and speak with a healthcare provider to ensure proper prenatal care.
3. You Need Carbohydrates
One possible reason for craving beans is that your body may need carbohydrates. Beans are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy and help regulate blood sugar levels.
If you have been following a low-carb diet or have been engaging in strenuous physical activity, your body may be signaling a need for more carbohydrates, and beans can be a satisfying and nutritious way to fulfill that need.
4. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes in the body can also contribute to cravings for beans. For example, during menstruation, women may experience a dip in estrogen levels, which can lead to a drop in serotonin levels, a brain chemical that regulates mood and appetite.
Eating beans, which are high in tryptophan, an amino acid that the body uses to produce serotonin, may help boost mood and alleviate cravings during this time. Similarly, during menopause, fluctuating hormone levels can cause changes in appetite and cravings, and beans may provide a satisfying source of protein and fiber to help manage these symptoms.
5. You Are On a Diet
If you are on a diet, you may be craving beans because they are a nutritious and low-calorie food that can help you feel full and satisfied without sabotaging your diet goals. Beans are high in fiber and protein, which can help you stay satiated for longer periods of time and reduce overall calorie intake.
Additionally, incorporating beans into your meals can add flavor and variety to your diet, making it easier to stick to your healthy eating plan.
6. You Need Protein
One reason for craving beans may be that your body needs more protein. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, containing on average 7-10 grams of protein per ½ cup serving.
If you are vegetarian or vegan, or if you simply prefer plant-based sources of protein, beans can be a satisfying addition to your meals. Additionally, consuming adequate protein is important for building and repairing muscles, supporting immune function, and maintaining overall health.
7. You Are Eating Too Many Calories
Interestingly, craving beans may also be a sign that you are consuming too many calories. If you have been indulging in high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, your body may be craving beans to balance out your nutrient intake.
Beans are a nutrient-dense food that provides a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and can help promote feelings of fullness and satiety. Incorporating more beans into your diet can help you reduce overall calorie intake while still providing your body with essential nutrients.
8. You Love a Certain Type of Beans
Another possibility for craving beans is simply that you have a strong preference for a certain type of bean. Did you know that there are seven main types of beans, including:
- Black beans
- Black-eyed peas
- Pinto beans
- Cannellini beans
- Garbanzo beans
- Kidney beans
- Soybeans
Though there are certainly more out there? If one of these types happens to be your favorite, it could explain why you are craving beans.
9. You Are Stressed
Stress can also be a reason for craving beans. When you are under stress, your body releases the hormone cortisol, which can increase appetite and cravings for high-carbohydrate foods.
Beans are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the negative effects of stress on the body. Additionally, the act of preparing and cooking beans can be a calming and meditative activity, which can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.
10. You Can’t Get Over a Recipe.
Have you recently tasted a bean dish that you absolutely loved, to the point where you wished you could have had another plate, even though you were already full? This could be a reason for craving beans.
You may be longing to satisfy your cravings for that specific dish you enjoyed so much. Regardless of the reason, the fact remains that you are indeed craving beans.
What to do about your cravings?
Your cravings are a way for your brain to signal that your body is lacking certain nutrients. In such cases, it is important to nourish your body with foods that are rich in nutrients. One such food is beans. If you consume a well-rounded meal that includes beans, you are likely to satisfy your cravings and provide your body with the necessary nutrients it requires.
Conclusion
Now that you understand the potential reasons behind your intense craving for beans, it’s crucial to know how to eliminate the craving. In many cases, cravings can arise due to a lack of nutrients in your daily meals, which can impede regular body functions.
Therefore, it is important to ensure that you consume a balanced and nutritious diet, exercise daily, and eliminate fast food from your diet.
By identifying the root cause of your cravings and acting, you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing them in the future. Regardless of your specific reason for craving beans, consuming them may provide relief, but it is equally important to prioritize a healthy and nutritious diet overall.