The first
step to craving control is to understand your opponent. “A craving for sugar frequently dominates days and moods like a demanding, undisciplined, whiny toddler,” expert Carolyn Allen says. She teaches us to take control with these health habits of successful sugar stoppers. Find a substitute. We crave sugar after meals or in the late afternoon. Fruit – dried or fresh, can help curb a craving. Herbal tea, cheese and assorted nuts can have a helpful effect.
Wait it out. The cravings will only last a couple of minutes. If you can wait it out, they will disappear. Find something to occupy your mind for a difficult 10 minutes. It will be worth it.
Make goals and reward yourself for success. “The longer you can hold out, the easier it will become,” Allen encourages. She mentions rewarding yourself one dollar for every day you don’t indulge. At the end of the month treat yourself to something nice.
Find a stout-hearted friend. “Clean out the cupboards and refrigerator of all bad foods and make the effort a team effort. Hold each other accountable and support one another through the tough times,” Allen suggests.
Put yourself in helpful situations. Clean out loose change from your car and wallet to avoid a spontaneous treat. Shop at the grocery store only after you have eaten a meal.
Find some cinnamon. Cinnamon is a natural alternative that is proven to kill cravings. Stick some flavored gum in your pocket and chew it throughout the day.
Brush your teeth when a craving hits. The sweetness of the toothpaste will distract you from eating sugar. Not to mention that lovely clean feeling you experience after brushing. Who would want to replace that with the sugar coating on your teeth after dessert?
The holidays set everyone back. But you can be the one to defeat the sugar craving and establish successful habits for the future.
