It’s all over the media these days that sugar is bad for you. And your dentist would love if you limited the amount of sugar you eat to protect your tooth enamel. But if you like sugar, you may have a hard time giving it up altogether. Below remain a few suggested tips that may help you take your mind and your appetite off eating sugary foods, and keep your teeth and gums healthy, too.
Sugary food cravings have nothing to do with a need for food. Usually, sugar cravings are more about the brain’s need for a reward. Some people can have a bit of a sugary treat and stop eating. But lots of people have trouble walking away from a sweet treat once they’ve had their first bite. So here are some possible suggestions for how to curb sugar cravings to help you feel full and keep you away from the sugary snacks.
1. When You Get Hungry, Eat a Full, Healthy Meal
One of the tricks about dealing with a sugar craving is to realize when you have a craving, or when you’re really hungry. Listen to what your body tells you. If you’ve already eaten a good meal and you want a snack, it’s a craving. So, if you have a desire for sweets and it’s about time to eat your next meal, eat a healthy meal before you decide on eating any sugary treats. Also, you can keep healthy snacks in your kitchen so you’ll have an opportunity to make good choices without sugary foods. Also, choose protein-based meals to curb your hunger and cravings. If you’re not sure whether it’s a craving or you’re hungry, pick the protein-based snack.
2. Take a Hot Shower
While you can’t take a hot shower every time you get a craving for sweets, a hot shower or bath can help you take your mind off your craving. To use this trick, you’ll need to use hot water, but don’t burn your skin. If you’re in the shower, let the hot water run over your upper body to the point where it heats you up for about 10 minutes. You’ll get the same effect as if you’ve been in a sauna, and feel very relaxed. Plus, your craving for sweets will be gone.
3. Walk Off Your Sugar Craving
Walking and running works for two good reasons. The first reason exercise works are to get you away from the food that is tempting you. The second reason running or walking helps fight your desire for sweets is that exercise causes your brain to release endorphins. Endorphins help your emotions feel good and also turn off your craving for candy and cookies.
To learn more about how to curb sugar cravings, or for more information about healthy eating and your teeth, get in touch contact with us for a consultation and an appointment at northviewdental.com.
