Fatigue Increases Cravings for Carbs

You didn’t get much sleep last night and all you want to do today is eat … junk, sugar and carbs. You certainly aren’t having cravings for steamed broccoli and tofu! Why is it that our cravings for carbs increase when we are tired? There is actually a medical explanation. One CGB reader had the following question:

Comment from Rain: Over the last 2 years I have lost 60lbs … during that process I have discovered that when I am tired, I find myself reaching for food. Of course the answer would be more sleep 🙂  But, in your research/experience have you found that being tired can actually be an eating trigger? I crave comfort foods when I tired. Also, I really do lose that control I would normally maintain. For me, when it comes to food.. being tired is just like having 1 too many drinks.

Answer from Martha: You hit the nail on the head Rain! Cravings for carb rich foods increase when you are tired.  Researchers are discovering that sleep affects hormones that regulate satiety, hunger and how efficiently you burn calories. People who sleep less have higher levels of grhelin (a hormone produced in the body that increases hunger) and lower levels of leptin (a hormone that signals the brain to stop eating).

You had mentioned that getting more sleep would be a good idea. I agree! You should also make sure that you have adequate protein at meals as this can help to control blood sugar. In addition, try not to go too long without eating as this will also cause a drop in blood sugar. Low blood sugar will only make cravings worse. BTW – congrats on your weight loss!