Everyone craves certain foods from time to time. Eating that food in minimal amounts can help to reduce the urge to go overboard with your favorite meal. If cravings for foods persist, or you feel you cannot control how much you eat per serving, it could be an indication of a medical condition that may need treatment.
Anemia
Anemia is when your blood does not deliver enough oxygen throughout your body. Low iron levels can contribute to anemia. Without iron, your body cannot produce hemoglobin --- an essential protein that aids in proper oxygen distribution. Extreme fatigue, loss of energy, rapid heart rate, pale skin and leg cramping are some of the symptoms of anemia. Another symptom is pica or a craving for strange substances, including dirt, ice, paper, chalk, ashes and clay substances. If you find yourself munching on ice frequently or you enjoy the taste and texture of chalky substances, consult your doctor. Non-food items may contain chemicals and substances that could be poisonous and hazardous to your health, especially if you swallow and digest them.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition of the endocrine system. With diabetes, your body either rejects the cells that produce insulin or does not make enough insulin to bring blood glucose levels within the normal range. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive thirst and hunger, tiredness, irritability, weight loss and frequent urination, explains the American Diabetes Association. Another symptom of diabetes could be an intense food craving for sugar and sweet foods, which may be caused by an increase in appetite. If you suspect you have diabetes, it is imperative that you speak to your doctor about your suspicions as a matter of priority.
Premenstrual Syndrome
Premenstrual syndrome is a condition in which specific symptoms are related to the time of your monthly menstrual cycle. According to Womenshealth.gov, symptoms include muscle pain, anxiety, mood swings, insomnia, acne, drowsiness and appetite changes -- including food cravings. You may find yourself craving sweet and salty foods; this is common -- and normal, as long as you eat these foods in moderation. Eating large amounts of salty foods and processed sweets can cause water retention and weight gain.
Eating Disorders
If you find yourself showing signs of intense food cravings and consumption, you could have an eating disorder. Binge eating is a serious eating disorder in which your body has an intense craving for a certain food or groups of foods. You may consume so much food that it leads to excessive caloric intake along with emotional depression because of the binging. Another common eating disorder is bulimia. Bulimia can be triggered by food cravings. It can have deadly effects on your health including irregular heart rate, ruptured stomach or esophagus, swelling of the extremities and kidney failure.
Member Comments