“Everyone here knows that Halloween was invented by the candy companies. It’s a conspiracy.” Max, Hocus Pocus
We know that Halloween’s roots go far beyond the candy companies, but they sure are benefitting this month, aren’t they? Everywhere you turn, fun-sized candies sit in plastic Jack-o-lanterns, beckoning you to take one. And since they’re so small, two or three couldn’t hurt, right? Before you know it, those little treats turn into a habit, and habits are hard to break.
Today, we’re talking about how to beat sugar cravings and help you take control of the sugar monster inside. Did you know that the average American adult consumes 77 grams of sugar every day? That’s 60 pounds each year! And kids are eating even more. An occasional treat is good, but don’t let it trick you into a routine you didn’t choose!
Cut sugar out of your diet
According to the British Journal of General Practice, forming a new habit takes approximately 10 weeks. Call a temporary time-out on sugar to reduce your body’s dependence on it. It won’t be easy, but if you fight through the major cravings, you can set a new routine instead of being tied to your sugar addiction.
Sugar doesn’t just come in a Snickers bar— prepackaged foods like pasta sauces, peanut butter, and even ketchup contain sugar, often in the form of high fructose corn syrup.
Be thoughtful about routines associated with sugar
Do you sit down in front of the TV with a bowl of ice cream every night? Are you automatically grabbing a treat from the candy bowl every time you get to your office?
Are these sweet moments ones you savor? Or are they simply routine? Cut out the times you mindlessly eat sugar and swap the sweets for something healthy. Pop some popcorn for TV time. Bring some fruit for the midday slump. Save sweets for a time when you can be mindful about what you’re eating and enjoy every moment.
Drink some water
Drinking enough H2O each day can cure a whole lot of things. Besides keeping organs functioning properly, helping your skin, and improving sleep quality, it can also help reduce sugar cravings. Sometimes, when you crave something sugary, your body is just dehydrated. Drink a glass of water before skipping straight to the sweet stuff.
Eat more protein
Did you know that eating protein and fat will help you reduce your sugar cravings? Carbohydrates break down quickly, but protein and fat are a slow burn— helping you feel full longer. You can find protein-rich recipes on our blog, or if you live in New York City, the NYC Cooking Club can deliver delicious protein-filled dishes right to your door. Use code ENHANCEWELL for 10% off EVERY order you make with the NYC Cooking Club.
Your current sugar cravings might be keeping the candy companies in business, but it’s possible to banish the sugar monster! Take control of your health and move toward a life of balance, where sweets are an occasional treat— not a guiding force.
Keep your mind off your cravings during your sugar detox with fitness classes with Enhancewell Fitness. We promise you’ll forget all about York Peppermint Patties when you’re holding a plank!
