Cravings are fueled by dopamine, says Shah, as opposed to nourishing your body. That said, you can “hack” those cravings by giving yourself a big burst of dopamine via protein-rich foods, especially early in the day.
“In the morning, you want to break your fast with dopamine-rich foods because you want that motivation, you want that drive, you want that energy,” adds Shah. “Dopamine is closely related to norepinephrine1, which gives you that adrenaline boost in the morning.” Protein-packed breakfasts also help you stay full2, so you’re less likely to engage in compulsive snacking throughout the day.
