What you're about to read is alllllllllll about beating those sugar cravings.
Around here, we love our sweets! We like to have a little treat after lunch and will also pair some dark chocolate with our tea after dinner. There’s no harm in enjoying these simple pleasures once in a while. HOWEVER - when it becomes an unconscious habit instead of a treat to reward or cheer you up, it needs to be addressed!
WHY DO SUGAR CRAVINGS HAPPEN?
(There are several different reasons why we get sugar cravings, but the ones below are focusing on blood sugar.)
- When you eat carbohydrates, they are broken down into sugar in the body. The more refined the carbohydrate is (cereal, granola, white pasta), the quicker the sugar is released into your bloodstream. This causes a rapid rise in your blood sugar level.
- Insulin, a hormone that shuttles the sugar into cells is then released. When your blood sugar rises too fast, a rapid and excessive amount of insulin is released.
- This can cause your blood sugar to drop below optimal levels for a short time - which is when the cravings start to hit! We then try to satisfy those cravings with high-carb or sugary foods.
- Blood sugar spikes and the cycle begins again. This leads you down a blood sugar rollercoaster - one that is hard to get off of.
HOW TO PREVENT THIS
Our number one tip is to start your day with a balanced meal that contains healthy fats and protein.
Consuming foods that are rich in protein, healthy fats and fiber is the best way to keep your blood sugar levels steady throughout the day. The less sugar and refined carbs you consume in the morning, the more balanced your blood sugar level will stay all day.We like to start our day with some eggs, avocado and sautéed veggies. This healthy breakfast keeps us satiated and free from cravings!
Our second tip is to NOT skip meals.
This can lead to a drop in blood sugar, which will intensify cravings and may cause you to overeat at your next meal.
Our third tip is to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night.
A lack of sleep can affect the hormones that regulate your appetite. This can lead to increased cravings and hunger.
While there is so much more to sugar cravings than just blood sugar regulation (we haven't even touched on the psychological aspect of it!), we think it's important to understand what's happening inside your body that causes these reactions. Remember, you are not the only one fighting this! We all struggle with these urges from time to time. The important thing is to realize that you can still do something about these cravings! Try implementing some of these healthy habits into your life and let us know how it goes.
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