Why do I crave sugar so much?

How do you stop an uncontrollable sweet tooth and kick those cravings for so much sugar?
We need carbohydrates (sugar) to ensure proper functioning of the body. Carbohydrates feed energy to the body, muscles and brain. Keep in mind there are good sugars and bad sugars.

It may be that your cravings are linked to specific time periods, such as after physical exertion or during times of temporary stress like job changes or final exams. Sports, focus and concentration are natural functions of the body and brain that require energy and are sustained by carbohydrates.

Having a sweet tooth does not necessarily indicate a sugar addiction. However, if you “need” a dessert or “need” sugar throughout the course of the day, you may have to re-think your diet.

Consuming carbohydrates (sugars) creates a vicious circle. As soon as you eat it, your energy is replenished and above all you experience feelings of pleasure and well-being. Why is that? Eating sugar secretes dopamine into the blood and activates endorphins that give us a sense of euphoria. This chemical reaction is what feeds our sugar addiction.

• More and more studies show that the brain's response to carbohydrates is similar to drug and cigarette addiction.
• Overconsumption of sugar obstructs the system, impairs metabolic processes (liver and pancreas) and causes exhaustion and premature aging. Over time, sugar binging can lead to diabetes.
• Sugar is the main ingredient in almost all processed foods (juices, soft drinks, flavoured yogourt and even deli meats). High sugar intake is the biggest factor contributing to obesity around the world, even among the poorest countries.
• Headaches, stomachaches, fatigue, insomnia, cravings, coronary artery disease and other health complaints can all be linked to the overconsumption of sugar.

Be careful, cutting off any and all sugar sources will quickly lead to mood swings and even depression.

• First, avoid simple sugars including chocolate, cookies, pastries, cakes and granola bars.
• Replace them with complex carbohydrates, i.e., starches, cereals, bread, pasta and brown rice, combined with vegetables and increased amounts of protein.
• Add natural sugars to your diet such as nuts, cheese and fruit, fresh or dried.
• Eat regularly and at the same time every day, even incorporating specific times for snacks. As cravings become fewer and far between, it will get easier to go without a sugar fix.
• When you feel a "sugar craving", drink one or two glasses of water. Occasionally, we misinterpret thirst signals as hunger signals.