by Darlene Kvist, Licensed Nutritionist

Why do I lose control of my eating? I am a very successful person in every aspect of my life until it comes to eating. I am frustrated by my lack of will power and I am losing my self-esteem. I can't stop with just one cookie, one chip or one brownie. I tell myself to just eat one... but after cutting one brownie after another until I've devoured the whole pan, I laugh, realizing sadly, that it is impossible. I've tried different suggestions to correct my obsessive eating, such as first asking myself how I'm feeling before I take that first bite, or to savor things in life other than food... but I have realized, that for me, nothing matches the rush I experience from that first bite.

As a nutritionist, I have heard this story over and over for more than 25 years.

It's a matter of chemistry
The clients I've talked to are frustrated with the answers they have been given from family members, friends, and even professionals. Nothing has helped this debilitating, guilt-ridden behavior that chokes away self-esteem. Understanding the biochemistry of your cravings, hunger, and addictive pattern of eating can finally put an end to the struggle. At the core of your being, an acceptance of your own personal biochemistry is critical. Once you take on personal responsibility for your biochemistry, you take charge of your cravings and compulsive eating.

It may surprise you that beef is a great food to reduce cravings for sugar, processed carbohydrates and even chocolate.

Why is beef such a "crave fighter?"

• Beef contains the amino acids needed to support production of serotonin, dopamine and all other neurotransmitters.
• Beef contains high levels of zinc and magnesium to quiet the cravings for sugar and chocolate.
• Beef helps to stabilize blood sugar, thereby eliminating cravings caused by low blood sugar.

Here are supplements to consider to reduce or eliminate your cravings:

• Bifido Bacteria is a beneficial bacteria found in the small intestine. The nutritionists at Nutritional Weight & Wellness have found Bifido Bacteria very effective in reducing cravings for processed carbohydrates and sugar.
• L-Glutamine is an amino acid with an impressive range of health benefits. It is one of the most important nutrients for a healthy digestive tract. Not only does L-Glutamine reduce sugar and bread cravings, but also alcohol cravings.
• Crave Control Plus, a proprietary blend of amino acids, vitamins and minerals, supports neurotransmitter production. Clients find this supplement very effective in reducing intense sugar cravings. In addition, many clients have used Crave Control Plus to successfully eliminate regular and/or diet pop.