Episode 42 - Cravings Explained: What Your Brain (and Biology) Are Really Telling You

Why do we crave certain foods — even when we’re not hungry? In this episode, Jenny Peña, NBC-HWC, breaks down the fascinating science behind food cravings. From hormones and brain chemistry to emotions, environment, and even lack of sleep, you’ll learn why cravings are so powerful — and why they’re not a sign of weakness.

This is the kickoff to our October Cravings Series — where we’ll explore sugar vs. salt cravings, hunger vs. habit, emotional eating, and even how to enjoy Halloween candy without the crash.

✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The difference between hunger, appetite, and cravings

• How hormones, brain pathways, and blood sugar dips fuel cravings

• Emotional and environmental triggers (stress, boredom, ads, social influence)

• Lifestyle factors that make cravings louder — like sleep and hydration
  

🎁 Free Resource

Download your Blood Sugar Balancing Snacks List for quick, satisfying snack ideas that keep your A1C steady — from Greek yogurt with berries to roasted chickpeas to dark chocolate with almonds.

👉 Get it here: https://www.subscribepage.io/snacks

🔗 Connect with Jenny:

Website: https://www.jennypena.com

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/coachjenp

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@coachjenp

Most people know processed foods aren’t the healthiest choice — but did you know one of the biggest reasons is because they’re missing fiber?

In this final episode of our September fiber series, I break down:

• How food companies strip fiber out of processed foods

• The impact of fiber loss on blood sugar, A1C, and prediabetes

• Why ultra-processed foods drive cravings and overeating

• Simple fiber-rich swaps to add back into your meals

• The big-picture reason why fiber is the missing link for better health

By the end, you’ll see how adding more fiber back into your daily meals can lower inflammation, stabilize blood sugar, support weight management, and reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes.

✨ Final Call: Registration closes September 30th for the Full Plate Living 8-Week Program!
This group coaching program is designed to help you add more fiber-rich foods into your life in a simple, sustainable way.

✔️ Live sessions every Friday at 12 noon ET✔️ Electronic program materials included✔️ Physical workbook available on Amazon for purchase✔️ Just $197 for the full 8 weeks

👉 Learn more & register here: https://subscribepage.io/fiber

📺 Missed the Orientation Session? Watch the replay on YouTube — it’s pinned at the top of my channel: https://www.youtube.com/@coachjenp

🔗 Connect with Coach Jenny Peña, NBC-HWC

• Free Resource: “Dinner, Solved” – 5 Easy Meals That Keep Blood Sugar Steady → https://subscribepage.io/dinnersolved

• Website: https://www.jennypena.com

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachjenp

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@coachjenp

• Apple Podcast: Path to Better A1C

• Book a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/coachjenp7/call

Most people know fiber is good for digestion — but did you know it can also shape your gut microbiome, calm inflammation, reduce cravings, and support steadier blood sugar and A1C?

In today’s episode, I break down:

• Soluble vs. insoluble fiber: which helps with constipation vs. which is gentler for IBS

• How fiber feeds your gut microbes and protects your gut lining

• Why fiber is essential for prediabetes and insulin resistance

• The link between fiber, cravings, and more stable blood sugar control

• One simple fiber upgrade you can try today

By the end, you’ll see fiber as a daily tool for better gut health and better blood sugar — helping you take control of prediabetes and reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes.

✨ Registration is open for the Full Plate Living 8-Week Program!
This group coaching program is designed to help you add more fiber-rich foods into your life in a simple, sustainable way.

✔️ Live sessions every Friday at 12 noon ET✔️ Electronic program materials included✔️ Physical workbook available on Amazon for purchase✔️ Just $197 for the full 8 weeks

👉 Learn more & register here: https://subscribepage.io/fiber

📺 Don’t miss the Orientation Session on September 20th — streaming on YouTube! It’s pinned at the top of my channel for easy access.

🔗 Connect with Coach Jenny Peña, NBC-HWC

• Free Resource: “Dinner, Solved” – 5 Easy Meals That Keep Blood Sugar Steady → https://subscribepage.io/dinnersolved

• Website: https://www.jennypena.com

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachjenp

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@coachjenp

• Apple Podcast: Path to Better A1C

• Book a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/coachjenp7/call