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How To Stop Sugar Cravings

Whether you have a sweet tooth or not, most of us love a treat now and then. You have to be living under a rock to not know that too much of anything is not good for you, and certain things, like sugar, top that list. We can help you on your quest of how to stop sugar cravings.

What Is A Sugar Craving?

Blood glucose levels can spark a sugar craving. Think of it this way: when your blood sugar is low, your brain sends a signal telling you that you need something sweet. But, other things could also trigger the same response. For example, if you regularly have a candy bar in the afternoon, you are creating a habit and pretty soon, your brain will start to tell you “It’s time for chocolate!”. Depression and boredom can also create a similar reaction, so it is important to know what the trigger is.

How To Avoid Sugar

Our bodies need glucose to survive, so we can’t avoid sugar completely. However, excess sugar in our diets can lead to health issues like obesity and diabetes. If you have been trying to figure out how to stop sugar cravings, you're in luck. Here are 10 ways to stop eating so much sugar without feeling deprived.

1. Take it slow 

It takes 3 weeks for something to become a habit. This includes cutting out sugar. We all know that Rome wasn’t built in a day, so don’t go cold-turkey. Embrace this new way of healthy eating slowly and gradually. This is really one of the best ways to stop eating sugar and your body will thank you.

2. Eat Right 

When you give your body the nutrients it needs, it won’t be asking you for things by sending you intense cravings. Treat your body like a temple, or at least like it’s really important to you. Include fruits, veggies, healthy fats, whole grains and lean protein.

3. Hydrate 

Sugar cravings can sometimes be due to dehydration. Most living things cannot live without water. Our brains are constantly sending signals for various things our body may need and in case you’re not getting the message, it will send it to you any way it can. One of the best things to do for your body, especially when learning how to stop sugar cravings, is to make sure you are getting enough water.

4. Don’t Skip Meals 

Low blood sugar levels happen when we go too long between meals. When that happens, so do sugar cravings. Doesn’t that make sense? Sugar levels drop so the brain says, “Hey, let’s get some sugar!” Avoid sugar cravings by eating at regular intervals.

5. Fill Up on the Right Foods 

Protein and fiber take longer to digest than other foods and stabilize blood sugar. The more protein and fiber-rich foods in your diet, the longer your stomach will feel full and you won’t be looking for dessert.

6. Choose Snacks Wisely, My Friend 

Let’s say it’s the middle of the day. Lunch was hours ago, and dinner is still a long way off. Great! Now you are craving something sweet. Instead of a candy bar or ice cream, reach for an apple or yogurt. Having these foods on hand will make it much easier to stick to healthier choices. For example, fill a fancy bowl with fresh fruit, stock your fridge with yogurt (Greek yogurt is extra creamy and soooo yummy!), keep some sunflower seeds in your cupboard. Having these snacks handy will help to keep you from making unhealthy choices and help you on your journey on how to stop sugar cravings.

7. Destress 

Stress can cause all kinds of problems and spark sugar cravings. There are many ways to manage stress, but you truly have to make a conscious effort to do so. Don’t let it get the best of you! You don’t have to do anything fancy, just going for a walk can reduce tension and reset your mind. Breathing exercises are really simple to do and you don’t even have to leave the house. For example, try the 6-3-9 breathing technique:

• Sit comfortably and inhale slowly for a count of 6
• Hold your breath for 3 seconds
• Exhale slowly while counting to 9

8. Get Your Zs 

As adults, we need 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night. When you deprive yourself of the proper amount of sleep, you can throw your hormones out of whack and, guess what? Here come those sugar cravings.

9. Say No to Artificial Sweeteners 

It may seem like a great idea to replace sugar with artificial sweeteners, but they can increase sugar cravings. Plus, most are made from unhealthy chemicals that can cause all kinds of serious health issues. Natural sweeteners such as stevia are a better choice.

10. Check the Label 

There is a lot of information on those food labels on packaged foods and it’s a really good idea to look at them when purchasing groceries. For one thing, you will be able to keep on top of your sugar intake and also find any hidden sugar in processed foods.

Healthy Snacks To Satisfy Your Sugar Cravings

By following these 10 tips, you won’t be asking yourself, “How do I stop eating sweets!” By keeping these things in mind, you will reduce sugar cravings and be well on your way to a healthy life.

 

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