Mustard is a condiment derived from the tiny round seeds of the mustard plant, a crop grown in Canada and some parts of the US. Mustard comes in different varieties and is one of the earliest spices used in cooking.
Your body may crave mustard if you’re deficient in one or more of the nutrients found in the mustard seed, such as – calcium, selenium, and manganese – or it misses the spicy taste of mustard.
This article explores the three most likely reasons you’re craving mustard. Read on.
Three most likely reasons you’re craving custard
1. Nutrient deficiency
If you crave mustard excessively, it’s probably because you’re deficient in certain essential nutrients contained in mustard.
Mustard is a calcium-rich food, and you might be craving them if your body needs calcium. An average human requires about 1000 mg of calcium every day, and mustard provides as much as 266 mg in 100 g.
Mustard cravings may also be caused by a lack of magnesium and selenium, as 100 grams of mustard seeds contain 370 mg of magnesium and about 208 mcg of selenium.
While magnesium is essential to maintain the normal functioning of our cardiovascular and nervous systems, selenium plays a role in maintaining thyroid metabolism and DNA synthesis.
Additionally, mustard is also a good source of manganese which assists in the metabolism of nutrients in the body.
So, your mustard craving could be because your cells are low in calcium, magnesium or manganese, or a combination of the three.
Whatever the case, we recommend you have a good fill of mustard whenever you crave it. The same goes for other healthy cravings.
2. You miss the mustard flavor
Yellow mustard, the most popular mustard specie, has a tangy flavor.
Although most people don’t like its vinegary taste, others find them delectable. If you belong to the second category, your mustard craving may be because your body wants to enjoy its satisfying taste again.
3. You want variety
If you still crave mustard despite having consumed it some days ago, it could mean that your body is craving a different flavor of the mustard seed.
Mustard seeds come in three basic variants: yellow, brown, and black; brown and black are the most pungent.
Mustard craving could mean you need to have a diverse taste of the mustard seed.
Why should you satisfy your mustard craving?
There are many benefits to eating mustard; some of them are:
It may decrease inflammation
Mustard is rich in glucosinolates and other powerful antioxidants that might be effective against psoriasis and other skin inflammatory diseases.
It may improve cardiovascular health
Mustard is rich in flavonoids like kaempferol and carotenoids, which may help reduce the risk of coronary heart diseases.
Additionally, mustard oil is generally a healthier option for the heart than most cooking oils.
Can provide relief from respiratory disorders
Eating mustard can also help against cold and sinus problems. It is often considered a powerful decongestant and expectorant, and this is because of its ability to generate heat and warmth in the body.
Skin and hair care
When roasted in sesame or coconut oil, mustard seeds can effectively treat acne. Additionally, because it is a rich source of antioxidants, it can help slow down aging.
May help manage diabetes
Eating mustard can also help reduce blood sugar and aid proper glucose metabolism.
They may be effective for weight loss
Mustard is low in calories, with only seven calories per teaspoon (10 grams) of yellow mustard, making it an excellent inclusion in a weight loss diet.
Fun ways to eat mustard
You can add mustard seeds to your daily diet in several ways. The following are some tasty ideas to try.
- Whisk them into salad dressings, or add them to warm meals.
- Use as cooking oil for deep frying or preparing stir-fry vegetables.
- Use as an emulsifier for the preparation of sausages.
- Use as a flavoring agent. Add as a seasoning in salad dishes, mayonnaise, and dips for a nice flavor.
- Blend into a paste and use it to make curries and gravies.
Alternative foods to satisfy your mustard craving
- Mayonnaise
- Horseradish
- Wasabi
FAQs
Is mustard good for your stomach?
Mustard is generally safe for you. However, consuming them in large amounts may result in abdominal pain, diarrhea, and gut inflammation.
How much mustard should you eat a day?
One teaspoon serving of wholegrain mustard is ideal for your daily dietary needs.
Is mustard good for high blood pressure?
Cooking with polyunsaturated oils, like mustard oil, can help lower your cholesterol and blood pressure.
Does mustard contain sodium?
A teaspoon of plain yellow mustard has only about 55 mg sodium which is relatively low compared to other condiments.
What is the healthiest mustard?
Yellow mustard has a lower sodium content than other mustards. Aside from this, there is no difference.
Is mustard better for you than mayonnaise?
Mustard is a much healthier choice than mayonnaise, especially for those with heart problems. It is low in sugar, has little fat, and has very few calories (about 5 to 10 calories per tablespoon), depending on the type.
Can mustard help inflammations?
Mustard possesses anti-microbial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties and can help provide relief from inflammation.
Does mustard have dairy?
Mustard is dairy-free; it does not contain milk and is safe for those with a milk allergy.
Does mustard contain gluten?
Yellow mustard is gluten-free as it contains mustard seed, salt, turmeric, water, garlic powder, paprika, distilled vinegar, spice, and natural flavor.
Can I eat mustard seed raw?
Yes, you can eat mustard uncooked, and it is safe and healthy.
How is mustard used?
Mustard is often used as a condiment on cold and hot meals, and it is a popular accompaniment to hot dogs, pretzels, and cold bursts. You can also use it as an ingredient in sauces like mayonnaise, marinade, vinaigrette, and barbecue sauce.
Do mustard seeds need to be cooked?
Mustard seeds are often kept whole and fried (or toasted) before adding to a dish or a stir-fry.
Conclusion
The most likely reason for mustard craving is a calcium deficiency. As discussed in this article, mustard offers several health benefits, and you can eat them every day.