In this episode, I join Clarissa to explore the root causes of cravings and why an all-or-nothing approach to managing weight often sets us up for frustration. At Well Empowered, my practice focuses on heart-centered, data-driven Functional Medicine, helping individuals address the underlying factors that impact their health and well-being.

We dive into the five common drivers of cravings:

1. Blood sugar fluctuations
2. Insufficient sleep
3. Nutrient deficiencies
4. Emotional triggers
5. Environmental influences

I share practical strategies to address each: starting the day with a protein- and fat-focused breakfast, improving sleep quality, correcting nutrient gaps, finding healthy emotional coping mechanisms, and creating a supportive environment for better choices. We also discuss the importance of hormones, including low progesterone and GABA support, in managing cravings during menopause.

A major theme of our conversation is the power of finding balance — avoiding rigid, all-or-nothing approaches and instead practicing self-care, self-compassion, and asking yourself, “What is my best game right now?” to make choices that support long-term health.

This episode provides actionable guidance for anyone navigating cravings, weight management, and lifestyle changes, offering tools to create a sustainable, vibrant approach to wellness.