Sugar seems to be everywhere and in everything making it really hard to get away from, especially during the holidays! Committing to doing away with it will bring you so many benefits. However, cutting out sugar is not easy. There is research that suggests sugar is as addictive if not more addictive than certain drugs. To help you along the way, here are 7 ways to kick sugar cravings to the curb!
1. Go for natural sweeteners instead of refined sugar
Refined sugar leads to spikes in blood sugar which sends you crashing later and craving more sugar. To avoid this vicious cycle, cut out refined sugar and rather use natural sweeteners to curb those cravings. Dates, raw honey, bananas etc. are great natural sweeteners to add to foods.
2. Eat lots of vegetables
One simply cannot eat too many vegetables. They are essential to a healthy diet. Vegetables help to balance blood sugar levels and prevent cravings. Try incorporating more green leafy, cruciferous and sweet vegetables into your diet. Sweet vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes and beetroot can help to satisfy your sweet tooth and prevent cravings.
3. Eat healthy fats
Dietary fats like avocado, coconut oil, nuts and fatty fish keep you satiated for a longer period of time and help to prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes. Try get in some of these foods everyday to help you along your sugarless journey!
4. Reduce caffeine
Coffee not only causes dehydration, it may also play a role in blood sugar swings. If you find it difficult to go without a cup of coffee and struggle with sugar cravings, it might be worth doing a caffeine cleanse or at the very least, reducing your caffeine intake.
5. Drink lots of water
Hunger and sweet cravings can sometimes be because of dehydration. Make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day and if a sudden unexpected hunger pang or sugar craving comes about, drink a glass of water first.
6. Get more sleep
A lack of sleep results in sugar cravings as our body and brain require more energy. The quickest source of energy is sugar and so this will be very difficult to resist when you are sleep deprived. Getting more sleep and relaxation will help to curb those cravings.
7. Improve your micro biome
Did you know that your gut bacteria controls your mood and cravings? It is therefore crucial to make sure that your gut is in good condition. Make sure to prioritise a healthy diet and incorporate fermented foods daily to encourage a healthy microbiome.
To help you kick the cravings, here are some of my most popular refined sugar-free treats:
