5 Foods Moms Turn to When They’re Depleted and Why

Motherhood is one of life’s most meaningful experiences, it’s also exhausting. Moms give so much of themselves—time, energy, love—that they often end up running on empty. In this article, we’ll explore five foods moms turn to when they’re depleted—and look at the deeper emotional cravings behind them so you can take care of yourself in ways that go beyond food.

1. Chocolate – A Quick Lift. When energy is low and patience is wearing thin, chocolate is an easy way to feel better fast. It contains compounds that increase serotonin, giving you that “feel-good” lift almost instantly. But chocolate cravings are about more than an energy boost. Chocolate can feel like an easy reward—except it often comes with a side of guilt. You tell yourself, “I deserve this,” but then feel bad afterward.  Craving chocolate isn’t just about a sugar fix—it’s about wanting a little moment of joy or indulgence in a busy day of caretaking.

 2. Coffee – Fuel for Survival. For many moms, coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a way to power through the day. The ritual of brewing a cup can feel like the only moment you get to yourself. Coffee isn’t just about caffeine; like chocolate, drinking coffee is a way of giving yourself a small break, even if it’s just a sip between diaper changes or school pickups. Yet, it also gives false energy when you’re really running on empty. Sometimes what you’re really craving isn’t coffee—it’s permission to slow down. If you find yourself pouring a third or fourth cup, ask yourself: Do I need to rest?

3. Bread and Pastries – Comfort in Carbs. There’s a reason why bread and pastries are so comforting. Carbs trigger the release of serotonin, which makes you feel good—at least for a little while. They can also bring back warm memories of family gatherings, where food was a source of love and connection. When life gets overwhelming, it’s no surprise that you might reach for these foods. Next time you’re craving something doughy, ask yourself: Is there another way to find a moment of calm, maybe one that lasts a bit longer than a quick snack?

4. Chips – Crunching Away Frustration. When the noise, mess, and endless responsibilities pile up, crunching through a bag of chips can be a distraction from life. Craving crunchy foods signals that you’re frustrated or annoyed with being “on” all the time. Chips allow you to crunch your stress away. What if, instead of reaching for chips, you tried finding another way to release frustration—like journaling, talking to a friend, or even a brisk workout?

5. Ice Cream – Sweet Relief from Stress. Ah, ice cream—cold, creamy, sweet, and soothing. Ice cream is often tied to childhood memories of celebrations, making it feel like a well-deserved treat. But ice cream cravings often have deeper roots. Maybe you need more sweetness in your life. If you find yourself turning to ice cream day after day, ask: What do I need more of in my life—pleasure, rest, or fun? Recognizing those needs is the first step toward giving yourself what you really crave.

All these cravings aren’t really about food—they’re about unmet needs. Chocolate, coffee, bread, chips, and ice cream give you a quick fix, but they can’t fill the deeper need for rest, joy, or maybe a craving for adult conversation.

If you eat when you’re depleted, the goal is to get curious. Ask yourself: What do I really need right now? Is it a break, some connection, or a moment of fun? When you start listening to your true needs, you can meet them in ways that go beyond food.

Next Steps:

Be kind to yourself when you reach for comfort food. Find other ways to care for yourself—whether it’s a 10-minute walk, journaling, reading, watching a TV show, talking to a friend, or asking for help. Small moments of self-care add up.

Moms give so much, and they deserve to be nourished emotionally and physically. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Take the time to think about what will nourish you as a person, not a parent. The more you tune in to what you really need, the easier it becomes to take care of yourself—with or without that extra scoop of ice cream.

Dr. Nina Savelle-Rocklin is a renowned author and podcast host and one of the nation’s leading psychoanalysts known for the psychology of eating. Her signature message, “It’s not what you’re eating, it’s what’s eating ‘at’ you,” has resonated with hundreds of thousands of listeners from around the globe in 57 countries. As founder of The Binge Cure Method, she guides emotional eaters to create lasting food freedom so they can take back control of their lives and feel good in their bodies.