Eating too much sugar is obviously bad for your health – from the inevitable “sugar crash” and lethargy that comes of excessive sugar consumption to serious health issues such as diabetes, there are a number of reasons to cut it from your diet as much as possible. However, eliminating sugar from your diet becomes especially difficult when you find yourself craving your favorite sugary treats, whether it’s a sweet coffee drink, soda or a pastry for breakfast.
If it seems to you like you crave sugar in the same way people crave other addictive substances, you’re on the right track. It is entirely possible to develop real sugar cravings, which can be incredibly problematic when those sugar cravings interfere with your ability to maintain a healthy diet. Eating sugars releases endorphins into the body, which makes us feel better. Additionally, the “crash” that comes soon after eating processed sugars as compared to other more natural forms of sugar and carbohydrates can make your body feel as if it needs more…. and more, and more.
Many people experience sugar cravings as a response to stressors in their life – one of the factors that leads to the telling sugar cravings that many women experience during menopause, as the body tends to release increased levels of the stress hormone cortisone during this time. That, combined with the fact that menopause tends to lead to weight gain in many women can be a dangerous combination.
Fortunately, there are many things that people can do to combat sugar cravings. One of the most important things to remember is that there is no reason to eliminate sugar completely from your diet to combat these cravings. Indulging just a little – preferably with healthier forms of sugar in small amounts – can satisfy your cravings and prevent feelings of withdrawal as may occur if you attempt to cut sugar out of your diet cold turkey. Small amounts of dark chocolate or fruit dipped in chocolate are great options that can sate your cravings in a healthier manner.
And speaking of fruit, do remember that fruit contains healthier, more natural forms of sugar that can sate your cravings while providing you with healthy doses of essential vitamins and minerals. Even dried fruits are preferable to sweet treats such as candy, and they are easy to take with you for an on-the-go snack that satisfies even the sharpest sweet tooth.
Finally, do remember that eating a healthy, balanced diet will help satisfy your sugar cravings overall. Your body tends to crave sugar when it’s in need of quick energy – the problem being that there are other, much better forms of energy you can incorporate into your diet. Don’t let your blood sugar drop. Have a healthy breakfast, opt for nutritious lunches as opposed to instant noodles and snack bars, and ditch the candy in favor of healthier snacks between meals. It may take a little time, but you can effectively eliminate sugar cravings simply by ensuring that you are giving your body better, healthier alternatives.
