This one thing can set us off track and pile on the pounds is cravings and particularly sugar cravings. So why do we crave sugar and not boiled eggs and chicken breast or even broccoli??? Here is what I have discovered not only with my own weight loss journey but also my clients. Food cravings can be caused by a variety of physical or mental factors. They may be a sign of hormonal imbalances, a suboptimal diet, high-stress levels, or a lack of sleep or physical activity.