Incorporating Integrative Nutrition
Written by Avia Ziv, Health Educator, Integrative Nutrition Coach & Chef Extraordinaire
at AMSA Summer Abortion Care & Reproductive Justice Institutes in Asheville, NC
Questions for your cravings: Fall is here, and you might find that the chill in the air brings new cravings… are you craving a soft, warm loaf of nutty banana bread, or a pumpkin spice-anything, or something boozy to warm your belly? Don’t ignore those cravings; they are an invitation from your body to reflect on your needs and desires.
Next time you feel a craving coming, take a moment to connect with yourself and ask yourself some of the following questions:
- What sensations will [insert thing you crave] make me feel? Textures? Flavors? Feelings?
- What do I want to feel that [insert thing you crave] will satisfy? Warmth? Comfort? Pleasure? Nostalgia?
- What are a few ways I can satisfy my needs and desires? A phone call with an old friend? A hot shower?
Now, your decision-making process includes more mindfulness and provides some valuable insight into your self-care needs. Have you ever eaten that thing you were craving, but then felt that the feeling of craving and need was still there? Maybe even stronger? When we understand the root of our cravings, we can satisfy our desires more deeply. So eat the pumpkin pie, but call a friend too! And enjoy this season with mindfulness.
Stay tuned for more Food for Thought in future issues!

![Average [Monthly] Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefits Per Person - KFF](https://www.amsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Average-SNAP-Benefits-Per-Person-KFF-map.jpg)


