You don’t need to worry if you’ve been eating meat at every meal and still can’t get enough. If you still want meat even after a big, filling meal, there are good reasons for that.
Food cravings are normal in some instances and are triggered by either psychological or physical factors. For example, the sight of or smell of certain foods can trigger cravings. Additionally, hormonal changes such as those during your menstrual cycle can cause you to crave certain foods (13).
This may explain why you stuff your face with chocolate when on your menses. Are you really wanting meat? If so, here are some reasons why you might want it and what you can do about it.
Why Am I Craving Pork? Exploring the Science Behind Pork Cravings
You just sat down to a delicious vegetarian meal, but something seems missing You have an irresistible urge for the savory taste and texture of juicy, tender pork Where do these sudden pork cravings come from, and what do they mean?
Pork is one of the most commonly consumed meats worldwide thanks to its versatility and rich, fatty flavor. Whether you’re jonesing for crispy bacon, juicy pork chops, or slow-cooked pulled pork, those cravings originate from a complex interplay of biological drives and psychological associations.
Let’s delve into the science behind pork cravings to understand what triggers that desire for the “other white meat.”
Biological Causes of Pork Cravings
On a physiological level, here are some factors that can spark a hankering for pork:
-
Protein needs – Pork is high in protein, which our bodies need to build muscle, bone and tissues. Cravings may arise when our protein reserves run low.
-
Fat cravings – Pork has high fat content. Cravings for fatty foods are common when following low-fat diets. Our bodies seek to balance deficiencies.
-
Iron deficiency – Pork contains heme iron, which is more readily absorbed than plant-based iron. Low iron can trigger pork cravings.
-
Zinc needs – Zinc is plentiful in pork. Deficiency in this mineral is associated with increased pork cravings.
-
Amino acids – Pork provides amino acids like carnitine and taurine that support muscle recovery, metabolism and neural function.
-
Hormones – Fluctuating hormone levels during the menstrual cycle can change taste perceptions and heighten cravings for salty, fatty pork.
Psychological and Emotional Factors
Beyond biological needs, these psychological reasons can also trigger pork cravings:
-
Stress or emotional eating – Eating pork may trigger dopamine release and temporarily relieve stress.
-
Celebration or reward – Pork is often eaten during celebrations and may be tied to feelings of indulgence.
-
Memories and nostalgia – Eating pork may be associated with fond childhood food memories.
-
Time of day – Late night hours tend to spur cravings for decadent comfort foods like pork.
-
Environment – Smelling or seeing pork cooking can ignite immediate cravings through sensory cues.
-
Boredom – Cravings for exciting, fatty flavors like bacon can arise when bored.
-
Rebellion – Purposely craving “forbidden” foods like pork can be a small act of rebellion on restrictive diets.
Health Consequences of Frequent Pork Consumption
Regularly relying on pork to satisfy intense cravings can have negative health impacts:
-
Increased cancer risk – Processed and red meats are classified as carcinogenic by the WHO. Frequent pork intake may raise colon cancer risk.
-
Heart disease – The high saturated fat content of pork can drive up cholesterol and increase heart disease likelihood.
-
Inflammation – Compounds in pork may trigger inflammatory responses linked to arthritis, heart disease and diabetes.
-
Insulin resistance – A diet high in fatty pork can contribute to diabetes risk and insulin sensitivity issues.
-
Weight gain – With high calorie density and fat content, pork can easily lead to excess calorie intake and obesity.
-
GI issues – Greasy, hard-to-digest pork can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea and other GI symptoms when overeaten.
Healthy Ways to Satisfy Pork Cravings
When pork cravings strike, try these nutritious strategies:
-
Portion control – Stick to a 3-4 oz serving of pork, focusing on lean cuts.
-
Choose lower-fat cooking methods – Opt for grilling, roasting or baking instead of frying pork.
-
Add veggie sides – Balance pork with fiber-rich vegetables, fruits and whole grains.
-
Substitute with plants – Try jackfruit, eggplant or mushrooms for pulled “pork” sandwiches.
-
Get protein from plants – Soy, legumes, nuts and seeds can provide protein without the sat fat.
-
Stay hydrated – Drink water with meals to aid digestion and prevent overeating.
Foods That Can Satisfy a Pork Craving
For a lower-fat, plant-based way to get that savory umami flavor, try these pork alternatives:
-
Shiitake mushrooms – Sautéed shiitakes offer a meaty texture.
-
Eggplant – Grilled eggplant mimics the mouthfeel of pork.
-
Hearty lentil dishes – Spiced lentils with cumin and garlic provide rich flavor.
-
Baked tofu – Marinated and baked tofu can substitute for pork.
-
Tempeh – Nutty, chewy tempeh strips make great bacon substitutes.
-
Jackfruit – Shredded, sauced jackfruit replicates pulled pork.
-
Seitan – Wheat-based seitan absorbs flavors well and shreds like pork.
Understanding Your Cravings
Tuning into the origins of your pork cravings provides valuable clues to interpreting them. If you just finished an intense workout, cravings for protein-rich pork likely stem from real metabolic needs.
But if you just ate a filling meal and still feel a strong urge for bacon or ham, the craving may be emotionally driven. Either way, occasional moderate pork intake can be part of a healthy diet as long as it is balanced with plant foods.
Rather than mindlessly indulging a craving, take a pause to check in with your actual hunger levels. Finding more wholesome ways to nurture yourself can help override habitual overeating. With awareness and balance, you can enjoy the occasional slice of pizza or bite of pork without overdoing it.
Don’t Be So Hard On Yourself For Craving Meat
Accept that sometimes, certain food cravings are normal. Your body is simply trying to do its job by telling you that something is amiss. Acceptance will make it easier for you to look for healthier alternatives. It will also help you appreciate your body more.
Understand your cravings. Not all cravings are physical. Our psychological makeup causes some of these cravings. Eating meat or any other kind of food comes with memories, traditions, and associations.
There are times when you might think you want meat when what you really want is a barbecue. Luckily psychological cravings usually pass within a few minutes, saving you the need to eat meat.
Drinking water helps keep your tummy full and also helps in digestion. Sometimes, your body confuses thirst signals with hunger signals. Having a bottle of water within reach will help you avoid cravings. Instead of binging on burgers and hot dogs, drink water. If the plain taste of water becomes too dull for you, squeeze in some lemon.
Add Proteins And Foods Rich In Fiber To Your Diet
A protein deficiency is one of the reasons why you crave meat. Instead, why not add more protein to your diet? Protein and fiber also make you feel full longer, so you won’t have to eat all the time.
Foods that are filling and loaded with nutrients should be your go tos. Protein is the most filling macronutrient; therefore, eat more to curb meat cravings (18). Moreover, high protein foods can help reduce the activation of areas in the brain that associate with cravings and late-night snacking (2).
To enhance fullness, make sure you pair your protein-rich foods with fiber-rich carbs and healthy fats. Always see to it that you have access to such meals. If possible, plan ahead and have a meal timetable.
Why Am I Craving Meat? Top 3 Reasons
FAQ
What deficiency causes craving pork?
Why do I feel better after eating pork?
What does eating a lot of pork do to your body?
Why am I craving pork fat?
Why do I have a craving for meat?
Meat cravings are often caused by deficiencies in some of the key nutrients found in red meat. Meat is a complete source of protein (containing all nine essential amino acids) and provides several essential vitamins and minerals. So, when you crave meat, it may be your body signaling a need for these nutrients.
Why do I crave red meat specifically?
If you are craving more red meat, it’s likely that you are lacking protein in your diet. Your body may be longing for something that is packed with protein and will give it the nutrients it needs to function properly.
Why do I crave meat if I’m low in vitamin B12?
If you are craving meat, it could be because you are deficient in vitamin B12. This is one of the reasons why you might crave meat if your body is low in this essential nutrient. It’s possible to boost your vitamin B12 levels through various food sources or supplements.
Can a protein deficiency cause meat cravings?
A protein deficiency in your body could make you crave meat. Your body often alerts you in case of any nutrient shortage. Meat is a rich source of this body-building nutrient. Cravings for meat, along with other symptoms like weak and brittle nails, are one of the first signs of protein deficiency.