Did you know that sugar can be addictive? Unfortunately, it is easy to get hooked because sugar and high fructose corn syrup seems to be in everything! Even if you don’t think that you are having very much sugar, chances are that you are breaking through the recommended daily sugar intakes. However, breaking this habit is incredibly difficult, especially when you are having strong sugar cravings throughout the day. Read on for some tips that can help you beat these cravings so you can have a healthier diet.
Know Your Sugar Consumption Habits
If you’re in denial or unaware of how much sugar you are actually consuming, then you won’t be able to come up with a good plan. For about a week or so, try keeping a food journal. Write down everything you consume and then use online resources to determine how much sugar is in each item. This will give you a great idea of how much sugar you are consuming on a daily and weekly basis.
Cut Down Gradually
If you suddenly cut all sugar out of your life, you will likely experience much stronger withdrawal symptoms. Not of these are dangerous, but they can leave you irritable, anxious, and even physically run down and tired. If you have a serious sugar habit, it is probably best to gradually decrease it over a couple weeks to make it easier on you.
Have Self-Discipline
While you are trying to decrease your sugar intake, it is important to remember why you are doing it in the first place. Are you trying to lose weight? Lower your blood sugar? Prevent cavities? It may be easy to cave and have that soda or candy, but in the end, you won’t be making progress towards your goal. By learning to tell yourself “no,” you will be able to develop the self-discipline you need to be successful.
Use Sugarless Alternatives
Like anything else, artificial sweeteners should be consumed only in moderation. However, these options are great if you have a sweet tooth but don’t want to add more sugar into your diet. You can find sugar-free sweeteners to add to your coffee, sugarless hard candies and gum, and even sugar-free sweet beverages. Keep an eye out for these products.
Use Smaller Quantities of Sugar
Some people can’t stand the taste of artificial sweeteners in coffee or other beverages and sweets. If this includes you, simply try using smaller amounts of real sugar. Moderation is key when it comes to living a healthier lifestyle.
Treat Yourself Occasionally
After avoiding sugar for a long time, many people find themselves relapsing and binging on something sweet. However, you may be able to avoid this by having a sugary treat occasionally. For instance, having a slice of cake once in a while won’t cause your teeth to be destroyed.
Trying to cut back on sugar? Use the tips listed above. This way, you can live a healthier lifestyle and maintain excellent oral health.
About the Author
After obtaining his dental education in India, Dr. Raj Vekariya moved to the United States where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery and completed his Certificate program in Esthetic and Comprehensive Dentistry at New York University’s College of Dentistry. For more ways to maintain excellent oral health or to schedule an appointment at his office in Canonsburg, PA, visit his website or call (724) 300-3700.