198. But What Is a Craving, Anyway? (we're still debating it)

In this live-streamed episode, Stef and Sarah explore the nuanced world of cravings — what drives them, how they differ from binge or overeating urges, and why they're often more complicated than they seem. They discuss the physiological and emotional undercurrents behind cravings, from hormonal shifts to nervous system dysregulation, weaving in personal experiences — including Stef's two most memorable pregnancy cravings. The conversation unpacks how cravings show up differently for restrictors versus permitters, how appetite and craving aren't always the same thing, and what it looks like to approach cravings from a more regulated, self-led mindset. Rather than reducing cravings to something to fix or fear, this episode invites a deeper, more compassionate understanding of them — one that honors both biology and psychology. If you find this episode helpful, you can subscribe to the Life After Diets podcast, leave us a review, and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and YouTube (@lifeafterdietspodcast). Your feedback helps us create content that matters to you. 01:27 Defining Cravings 03:02 Personal Experiences with Cravings 05:05 Cravings vs. Binge Urges 08:03 Cravings and Emotional Regulation 13:20 Cravings and Permission 16:40 Understanding the Root of Cravings 20:02 Pathology in Wellness Culture 20:51 PMS Cravings and Appetite 21:38 Understanding Cravings vs. Wants 24:31 The Role of Restriction in Cravings 29:45 Cravings and Recovery 33:26 Cravings vs. Urges Join our support community. This community is for you if you want a safe space to work through your daily struggles with food and body image. Community membership includes livestream episode recordings (online), monthly Zoom support meetings, a private Facebook group and member-only Q&A episodes. For more information go to: https://www.patreon.com/lifeafterdiets Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/lifeafterdietspodcast Email – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Connect with Sarah Dosanjh, Author & Psychotherapist Website – www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist Sarah's book I Can't Stop Eating is available on Amazon