Hi, Cleanish Squad!

​Listen to me read this email to you :)​

Quick update: We’re back in Austin! After five months on the road, we needed some consistency and structure to refocus, recharge, and plan our next chapter (plus, our house didn't sell!). While traveling taught us so much, being back in one spot allows us to create new routines and dig deeper into what’s next for you and us. I’ll be sharing more about this soon!

Now, let’s dive into today’s topic: cravings.

Last week, many of you shared that your biggest clean eating struggle is afternoon cravings. You’re not alone—this is such a common challenge, and there’s a reason for it!

But cravings don’t just happen in the afternoon. Your body can send signals for specific foods at any time, and those cravings often have a deeper meaning. Let’s break it down!

🍫 Chocolate Cravings

🤓 Reason: Often a sign of magnesium deficiency, which is common in diets low in leafy greens, nuts, and seeds.

✨ Try This: Add more magnesium-rich foods like spinach, almonds, or even a square of high-quality dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher).

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🍟 Salty Cravings

🤓 Reason: This could indicate a need for electrolytes, especially if you’ve been sweating a lot or are dehydrated.
✨ Try This: Snack on something naturally salty, like roasted pumpkin seeds or celery with almond butter.

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🍬 Sugar Cravings

🤓 Reason: A dip in energy, low blood sugar, or even poor sleep can trigger your body to seek quick energy from sugar.
✨ Try This: Focus on balanced meals with protein, fiber, and healthy fats to stabilize energy throughout the day.

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🥩 Meat Cravings

🤓 Reason: You might need more protein or iron. This is common if your meals have been carb-heavy without enough nutrient-dense foods.
✨ Try This: Include lean protein like chicken, eggs, or beans in your meals.

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💦 Random Cravings

🤓 Reason: Sometimes cravings are just thirst in disguise!
✨ Try This: Drink a big glass of water first when a craving hits and wait a few minutes to see if it subsides.

Why Cravings Hit in the Afternoon

Here’s why afternoon cravings are so common:

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🕒 Your energy dips naturally mid-afternoon, and if your lunch wasn’t balanced, you might feel a crash.
💦 Dehydration is often mistaken for hunger or cravings.
✨ How to Help: Keep snacks on hand (like almonds, Greek yogurt, or a date with almond butter), drink plenty of water, and eat a balanced lunch with protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

How I Handle Cravings

When cravings strike, I remind myself that they’re normal and often my body’s way of asking for something it needs. Over time, I’ve learned to respond with simple steps that help me feel better without guilt:

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1️⃣ Balance my meals to avoid crashes later.
2️⃣ Keep clean snacks ready so I’m not tempted by junk.
3️⃣ Hydrate first to make sure I’m not just thirsty.
4️⃣ Plan clean treats into my week so I don’t feel deprived.
5️⃣ Forgive myself if I indulge—because this journey isn’t about perfection.

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Bottom Line: Cravings are normal and don’t have to derail your day. Whether they hit in the afternoon or at random, the key is listening to what your body needs and responding thoughtfully.