These lead to binge-eating or late-night snacking and often arise from imbalanced blood sugar levels, stress, or emotional triggers. Over time, these cravings can add up to significant calorie surpluses, derailing progress toward weight loss or maintenance goals.

When you consume sugar or refined carbs, your blood sugar rises quickly, prompting a surge of insulin to lower it. This often leads to a sharp drop, leaving you craving a quick energy fix (like sugary snacks) again. These can disrupt hunger-regulating hormones, making it harder to resist cravings and control portion sizes. 

Binge eating is often triggered by the body's natural response to stress, which can disrupt normal hunger signals and emotional regulation. Stress can also impair decision-making and self-control, making it harder to resist unhealthy eating patterns. 

When the body consumes more carbohydrates than it needs, the excess is converted into glycogen and stored in the liver and muscles. Once these stores are full, any additional carbohydrates are converted into fat, leading to weight gain over time.