Note: If you are trying to lose some weight I am highlighting which solutions may also be a weight loss strategy.
Sugar Craving Solution #1: Check Your Beverages!
Sounds crazy, but sometimes sweet cravings are a sign of dehydration. So, drink a glass of water, wait 5 minutes and then see if you still have the craving. This is a great strategy to lose weight as well.
Sometimes we are really thirsty and not hungry.
Also, too much caffeine mimics a blood sugar crash - you’re high for a bit but then you come crashing down and crave….SUGAR, of course.
Sugar Craving Solution #2: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with Sweet Veggies, Fruit & Spices.
Your tongue has sweet taste buds that demand to be satisfied, so don’t hold out on them! Add naturally sweet foods & spices to your diet like squash, yams, carrots, beets, berries, figs, apples, cinnamon, coriander, nutmeg, cloves and vanilla.
Real foods actually taste sweeter when you kick out sugar and processed foods.
Sugar Craving Solution #3: Sleep!
For many of us, this is easier said than done. But if you’re constantly tired, your body is going to look for energy, usually in the form of sugar or caffeine. Power down an hour earlier than usual and notice how your cravings disappear.
Sleep is another great weight loss strategy.
Sugar Craving Solution #4: Check Your Protein.
This is a fun, cool fact - watch how much protein and what kind of protein you’re eating, especially animal protein.
Eating too little animal protein may lead to massive sweet cravings.
Eating too much animal protein (for some) may lead to sweet cravings and weight gain whether you eat sweets or not. When I work with clients we find just the right sweet spot for protein intake so they feel satisfied. Another weight loss secret.
Sugar Craving Solution #5: Sniff Out Low-Fat and Fat Free Foods.
When food manufacturers take the fat out of foods, what do they put in? Yep, sugar. Find foods low in sugar. Eat good fats. Don’t be afraid of good fats. They won’t make you fat.
Fat is actually your friend.
Sugar Craving Solution #6: Move Your Body.
Movement is another kind of food for your body. It releases stress, makes you feel great and look great. When you don’t get enough movement, the body starts to look for other ways to blow off steam, like binging on candy bars.
Pick whatever movement feels good for you.
Sugar Craving Solution #7: Create New Post-Meal Rituals.
If you’re a “dessert after your meal” person, one of the things you might love about that is the ritual of it.
What are other possibilities for post-meal rituals?
Get outside and take a walk after dinner. Play a game or do a puzzle. Close the kitchen. Brush your teeth.
Yes!! I second all of this!