The daily craving vanished when she took a leave from work. Maybe it was because work was so stressful. In our worst moments, a high-fat treat can seem the perfect antidote. Researchers think that back in our cavewoman days, when food was scarce and fat was key to survival, we developed a strong preference for high-fat food. To this day, fat triggers the release of endorphins, substances that in turn promote the release of pleasurable sensations.
Endorphins also circulate after exercise and other times of pleasure and satisfaction.
Add more pleasure to your life, whether that means having more sex, taking up exercise, developing a hobby, volunteering or cultivating close, supportive relationships. Besides triggering an endorphin high, exercise moderates appetite. In one study of yo-yo dieters who craved fatty foods, subjects who exercised moderately substantially reduced their cravings. But be patient and realistic. And watch calories.