Are sugar cravings driving you crazy?

For many people, sugary treats are the ultimate edible temptation. But, unfortunately, consuming too much sugar can eat away at your health.

Most of us know that sugar isn’t good for us. It accelerates the aging process, suppresses the immune system, and has even been linked to certain types of cancer. But, for some of us, the harmful effects of sugar aren’t enough to keep us from indulging our sweet tooth.

But, before you beat yourself up for your unhealthy habit, there is something you should know. Your inability to resist sweets could have an underlying cause other than a simple lack of willpower.

Read on to learn more about the causes of sugar cravings and what you can do to stop them!

What Sugar Cravings Really Mean: The Truth Behind Your Sweet Tooth

Despite reminders from dentists, physicians, and nutritionists, Americans continue to consume mega-servings of sugar each year. We may be more educated on the dangers of sugar consumption than we were in years past. But, we’re actually consuming more than ever.

In 1915, the average American consumed about 15 to 20 pounds of sugar annually. Today, the USDA’s estimation for annual sugar consumption in America has shot up to a whopping 156 pounds per person.

Whoa. That’s a lot of sugar.

But, what’s really behind America’s insatiable sweet tooth? And what can we do to curb our out-of-control sugar cravings?

1. Depression

When many of us have a case of the blues, we reach for chocolate or ice cream to pull us through. While it may seem that you’re craving sugar, what you’re actually craving is probably a serotonin boost, more than you are sweets.

Depression is linked to lowered doses of serotonin. So, when we’re feeling down, we tend to reach for things that boost our serotonin levels. 

Sugar does give you a little boost of serotonin, which makes you feel happier (at least temporarily). But, when the sugar-high wears off, you can experience a “sugar crash”, which can make you feel even worse than you did prior to indulging your sweet tooth.

Instead, when you’re down in the dumps, reach for a healthier snack to boost your mood. Bananas, walnuts, and green tea are better-for-you options for boosting serotonin. Exercising will also boost serotonin levels naturally.

2.  Lack of Sleep

If you are missing out on a good night’s sleep, you’re more likely to crave sweets throughout the day. 

Sleep helps to regulate how our body metabolizes glucose. It also helps to regulate our appetite. When we don’t get enough quality sleep, it can interfere with our blood sugar levels and result in a larger appetite overall.

Research shows that poor sleep habits are related to diabetes and obesity, which are both linked to unhealthy food choices, as well. If you want to keep your sugar cravings at bay, be sure to get 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.

3. Artificial Sweeteners

Many people turn to artificial sweeteners in an effort to cut calories and veer away from health hazards associated with real sugar consumption. But, sugar substitutes can actually do more harm than good.

Researchers have uncovered multiple risks related to artificial sweeteners, such as saccharin, aspartame, and sucralose. Sugar substitutes have been linked to weight gain and some contain dangerous carcinogens. Not only that, but studies show that consuming artificial sweeteners can actually increase your sugar cravings.

Better to tame your sweet tooth with naturally-sweetened fruit or a piece of dark chocolate, which, when eaten in moderation, can be a good-for-you sweet treat. When irresistible chocolate cravings strike, the dark variety can also be a healthier choice than milk chocolate or artificially-flavored options.

4. Nutritional Deficiency

Sugar cravings often point to crucial minerals or nutrients that are missing from your diet. Iron and magnesium deficiencies contribute to energy, blood sugar, and dopamine levels.

When you don’t get enough iron or magnesium, it can cause you to feel tired and sluggish. This can cause you to reach for unhealthy energy-boosters and temporary mood-fixes. But, in the long run, this strategy can backfire, causing your mood and energy to spiral further downward.

If you find that you’re craving chocolate regularly, that could mean that your body is trying to alert you to a magnesium deficiency. Visit here for more common cravings that may signal something more than meets the eye…or the mouth.

Deficiencies of minerals, such as chromium, vanadium, magnesium, and zinc, are often due to the lack of these ingredients in your diet. If your diet lacks minerals that are involved with metabolism and insulin production, it can result in sugar cravings. Ask your doctor about mineral supplements that may help curb your craving for sweets.

5. Stress

Stress is one of the leading culprits behind health problems. Not only does stress take on a toll on us physically, but it can have a negative impact on our moods and behavior, too.

Stress sends a signal to our adrenal glands to release cortisol. When we’re under heavy amounts of stress, it can cause a spike in cortisol levels, which can also lead to sugar cravings.

Creating a plan to deal with stressful situations in a healthy way can help you keep your cravings under control. When stress strikes, try taking a 10-minute walk or practicing meditation exercises instead of indulging in unhealthy eating habits.

Want More Tips For Eating Healthy?

Sugar cravings and unhealthy eating habits can sabotage your health goals. But, there are ways to manage your weight and feel great without sacrificing your health.

Get healthy tips for eating right and losing weight without starving yourself here!