Sugar is present in almost everything that we eat – from drinks to snacks, sauces, and even foods that we consider to be “healthy.” While enjoying sugar on an occasional basis is harmless, it is an issue when you are addicted to it. Suppose you are one of those individuals who reach for sweets or crave sugar when you are low; you are not the only one. Thankfully, sugar addiction can be dealt with once you set your mind to it. Today, we are going to discuss ways so that you know how to break a sugar addiction.
Why is sugar so addictive?
The moment you eat something sweet, your brain starts releasing dopamine – often known as the “happy” hormone. With the passage of time, the more you consume sugar, the more your brain starts to crave it by giving signals that you need it to feel good. In short, every time you want to reward yourself, you feel like eating something sweet.
But this is not a healthy habit. Sugar intake can cause rapid spikes and drops in your blood sugar levels. The spike occurs when you are tired and irritable, making you hungrier for more sugar. To break this addiction, you need to be dedicated. A strong mental condition is required. Here’s how you can break free from this addiction:
· Don’t try to quit sugar overnight
If you try to quit sugar completely one fine morning, you will not be able to do it. Even before you realize it, you will crave sugar and reach for more. The aim should be to quit systematically so you don’t feel drained or exhausted afterward. The best way is to reduce the intake slowly. You can begin by reducing the number of sugary drinks you consume each week. Restrict eating desserts after every meal. Try to replace snacks with healthy options. These small steps, when carried out for a few weeks, will make it easier for you to take the next step.
· Make sure that you eat balanced meals
When you start eating balanced meals, your desire for sugar will naturally decrease. One of the biggest causes of sugar cravings is unstable blood sugar. When your meal lacks sufficient protein, fiber, and healthy fats, your body starts looking for quick energy, and the easiest way out is to consume sugar. But when you have a balanced meal, your sugar cravings go down as you feel full and satiated.
· Identify hidden sugars in what you eat
Did you know that most processed foods contain added sugar, but under different names? Yes, and many are not aware of this. Some of these common names include cane syrup, high-fructose corn syrup, fruit concentrate, and maltose. You should always check labels to make sure that you are not consuming hidden sugars.
· Manage emotional eating
Most of the sugar cravings are emotional in nature. Whenever we are sad, stressed, or bored, we feel like eating something sweet to feel better about ourselves. Instead of increasing your sugar intake, you can opt for alternative methods like going for a walk, reading a book, listening to music, practicing deep breathing, or praying to God. Spiritual measures can go a long way in breaking this habit. Read religious books and try to communicate with the Almighty through prayer so that He can guide you on your journey.
Wrapping it up
Breaking a sugar addiction is not a quick fix; it is a journey that can often seem challenging and testing. If you give in, you will go back to your old ways. You have to be dedicated and committed in your approach so you can overcome this craving for good. It will take time, but the results will be worth it.
