How to Manage Your Cravings for Sweets

Category: Diet and Nutrition

Many people who are trying to lose weight often foil their dietary plans because of cravings. One of the most common cravings is that for sweet treats, which is likely an evolutionary behavior. In order for the body to function we need a constant supply of glucose in the bloodstream, so craving sweets makes sense. However, now food is anything but scarce in America and obesity continues to plague society. So what are we to do about that sweet tooth, so we can get in shape and our body can function as it should?

There are healthier options to combat and satisfy sugar cravings, including:

1. Fresh fruits and berries: These are great snacks that have natural sugars plus fiber which slow down the digestion of sugar. Also these foods contain beneficial phytochemicals like powerful antioxidants that help combat environmental stress and fight the aging process.

2. Eat only a small piece of intense dark chocolate instead of a whole milk chocolate candy bar. Choose chocolate that is made up of at least 70% cocoa solids, and is preferably organic. Eating a bite size piece daily is actually good for your health. Cocoa actually contains potent antioxidants like those found in red wine. A piece of dark chocolate and a glass of red wine - what could be better?

3. Taking a high quality chromium supplement can help reduce cravings for sugar and improve how your body handles glucose. Chromium is part of glucose tolerance factor. It can help reduce blood glucose, hemoglobin A1c levels and even serum cholesterol.

Over time, sugar cravings decrease when following a diet low in refined sugars and carbohydrates. It takes some time for the taste buds to adjust, but usually after 30-60 the taste for sweet foods changes and becomes very intense. In the meantime, follow the above steps and you will notice a significant difference.

Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on November 27, 2013 10:00 AM