Feel More Productive and Energized
We all want to be healthy but let’s be honest, who would much rather have that chocolate chip cookie than that healthy orange? Most of us are more likely to chose the fun chocolate chip cookie. Not only is it considered more socially acceptable, but you also enjoy it more.
Sugar cravings are usually born from your brain’s desire for a reward. They occur when you experience a false sense of fulfillment from eating sugary treats or depend on them to boost your mood. Enjoying a cookie once in a while is not bad, just don’t make it a habit to have one after every meal.
When you are guilty of sugar cravings, eliminating all sugar won’t solve the problem. Rather, you have to develop better life choices and incorporate more filling foods into your diet. Moderation is key.
Here are 5 ways to control your sugar cravings to feel more productive and energized.
1. Reach for healthier snacks
When you feel the sudden desire to satisfy your brain’s demands, switch those unhealthy sugars for healthier snacks. Yes, this is not easy but you just have to force yourself. Trust me, you get used to it later on!
Substitute that unhealthy snack with sweet fresh fruits and nonfat yogurt. (I recommend almond or coconut milk yogurt). The fruits provide filling nutrients that are needed by the body. You, therefore, end up feeling more satisfied than if you were to eat candy.
TIPS:
- Think about how tired and unproductive you will feel after eating that bag of gummy worms.
- Think about all the chemicals and who knows what is in it. (research if you must).
- Think about how badly you are hurting your own body and probably giving yourself disease and aging yourself.
I always think of the worst possible outcomes when it comes to sweets. I think of how disgusting the treat is and it usually stops me from eating it. Google ingredients in the cookie and you will see. Try it!
2. Boost your serotonin levels
Serotonin is the happiness hormone that your brain seeks to release with sugar cravings. Serotonin can be released by other factors such as good sleep, healthy diet, and proper exercise. It is an effective way to control your sugar cravings.
3. Be honest with yourself
Why are you craving candy? Are you just bored? When you are craving sugar, it can often mean you need to eat, real food!! When you get a strong sugar craving, ask yourself a few questions before gobbling down the box of chocolate. These honest questions include:
- Am I thirsty?
- Am I emotional or bored?
- Have I had sugar today?
- Have I had vegetables today?
- Is it that time of the month?
Judging from your answers to these questions you can find out the real reason you are having these cravings and take the proper action. Get up and have some water, have some fruit, or eat a meal.
4. Don’t go hungry
Hunger can quickly get mixed up with sugar cravings. When this happens, the desire is almost too powerful to stop. Rather than engage in battle with yourself, avoid staying hungry or missing usual meal time. Plan your meals, so they are always ready when you are.
5. Hot shower hack
Taking a long hot bath can control your sugar cravings. Experts say that allowing the hot water to heat you up for 5-10 minutes is effective in stopping sugar cravings.
It is important to understand that not all sugar is bad and we do need sugar in our daily diet in order to survive. We already get sugar from each meal that we get, so adding to this just converts it into fat and makes you feel sluggish.
I hope you keep these tips handy the next time you plan on going on a candy splurge. Remember, the sugar in the candy will make you feel sluggish as opposed to the sugar in fruit, which makes you feel energized.
xoxo
xio 💚
