Is There a Difference Between Hunger and Cravings?

In general, hunger builds gradually, while cravings come on suddenly. And while hunger is more open-minded, cravings tend to target one food specifically.

Sometimes hunger is described as physical and a craving as emotional, but psychologist and eating-disorder specialist Rachel Millner, PsyD, doesn’t believe that emotional hunger is any less legitimate.

In general, hunger builds gradually, while cravings come on suddenly. And while hunger is more open-minded, cravings tend to target one food specifically.

A craving for chocolate, for example, may be a sign that you’re feeling lonely or bored and your body knows the comforting hit of dopamine it provides will give you a lift.

“Many of us have connections with certain foods to childhood or memories,” she says. “Sometimes we might crave certain foods based on that.”

This was excerpted from “9 Common Questions Answered About Hunger Cravings” which was published in Experience Life.