Control Your Sugar Cravings in these 7 Surprising Ways – Learn how to Break the Sugar Habit
We love our sweets, fat and salt but what happens when overindulgence becomes a problem?
Sugar addiction is real for us and our families, and cutting cravings for the sweet stuff can be a serious challenge. There’s no question that sugar is bad for your body and mind, but your brain isn’t always rational in the midst of a craving. What can you do to break the sugar habit? Here are seven ways that might surprise you!
Cut out the artificial sugar
Many people begin the plan to cut back on sugar by replacing it with artificial sweeteners. Unfortunately, this doesn’t work long term. Studies show that artificial sweeteners like those in diet soda and sugar-free candy can trigger your body to want to eat more.
Sugar releases chemicals in the brain that make you feel good. When you consume artificial sweeteners, you get the sweetness without that chemical reward. This makes your body want more, and your cravings increase.
Eat more protein
Protein makes you feel full, gives you energy, and helps strengthen muscles. Eating protein can squash cravings for sugar because it keeps your body in balance and lets you avoid the fluctuation in blood sugar that can make your body want immediate energy. Try lean meats, nuts, and eggs when you need a protein boost.
Stop buying processed food
Processed food tends to be full of additives, including sugar. Prepackaged meals and snacks can easily cause you to lose the fight against sugar Try to avoid processed foods completely. When you do buy them, check the label for sugar content.
Don’t go anywhere without a healthy snack
Carry a small snack with you everywhere you go. Keep a package of nuts, an apple, or a protein bar in your bag at all times. If you’re tempted to buy a sugary treat, you will have a healthy alternative right in front of you to curb the temptation.
Fresh fruits make a great alternative to a sugary snack. Pack fresh strawberries, grapes, or slices of cantaloupe.
Eat cinnamon
Cinnamon is the perfect spice for helping you control cravings for sugar. Consuming cinnamon helps to keep your blood sugar balanced, thereby reducing or eliminating spikes that cause instant cravings.
Try sprinkling cinnamon in your coffee, oatmeal, or cereal. You can also take cinnamon in capsule form.
Exercise for a serotonin lift
Sugar gives your brain a good feeling that causes you to want it more. One way to replace that high is to exercise. Exercise raises your serotonin levels and makes you feel good. That means the cravings for sugar will stop.
Next time you get hit with a sugar craving head for the trail and go for a walk. You will be surprised at how quickly those cravings subside.
Get counseling
There are two kinds of counseling that can help you crush the cravings. A nutrition counselor can help you understand where the sugar in your diet is coming from, and provide alternatives that will help you avoid it.
A mental health counselor can help you explore the reasons you crave sugar. You may be eating sugar because you are stressed, depressed, or anxious. A counselor will help you understand and resolve these feelings.
Conclusion ….
No matter if it’s soft drinks or cupcakes, sugar is sugar and needs to be controlled.
Sugar cravings are powerful, but you can overcome them. Use these seven tips to set yourself free from being a slave to sugar. Your body will thank you.
