If I asked you, “Do you like sugar?”, I can’t think of very many people that would say NO. In fact, you might even consider that a person who claims to not like sugar, to not be human. That craving for sugar is evident in all of us. Unfortunately it manifests itself typically when we’re shopping in the junk food isle at the grocery store, or out in public when we see someone enjoying a sugary treat.

In fact, sugar consumption starts at birth with mom’s breast milk. And it seems that from that time forward, we can find ourselves consuming a lot of sugar despite the known and obvious ramifications it has on our health. It is exactly for these reasons that people are trying to cut way back on their sugar consumption.

If you are one of these people that have decided to cut back on your sugar intake, you may be finding yourself having very little success. And that’s okay, it is definitely not an easy process. But I can suggest a few methods for those of you looking to cut back on your sugar intake.

Cold Turkey:
Now before you write in and complain, I realize that this is probably your least favorite suggestion. However, cold turkey is the quickest, and more importantly, the cheapest way to stop your sugar binge.

In my experience, patients generally have the most difficulty with the first 48 to 72 hours. Why? Because sugar withdraw is definitely real. It takes some time for bad bacteria, fungus, and yeast that have been relying on that sugar as food to die off from your digestive tract. During this “kill” phase, they will release toxins to make you feel “off”. However, if you have the will power to get through this phase, you will undoubtedly begin to feel better, have better sleep, and increased concentration and energy.

The truth is, people have survived cold turkey and you can too.

Reach for Fruit:
I know, I know, fruit is also sugar. And there are some fruits that have a high quantity of fructose (sugar) in them. However, fruit provides fiber and nutrients along with its sweetness. Fiber is what slows down the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream, so that the “hit” is not so intense.

Also, stocking up on nuts and seeds and munching on them when your sugar craving hits can effectively eliminate that sugar craving. Always go for raw, un-roasted, and unsweetened nuts and seeds.

Grab Some Gum:
Easy here! First things first. Not all gum is created equal. Many brands of gum are loaded with sugar, artificial ingredients, and cancer causing chemicals. So, when choosing gum, look for a brand that is as close to mother nature as is feasible. I buy my gum (SPREE) at the Vitamin shop.

But chewing on a piece of gum has been medically proven to reduce food cravings, and it’s inexpensiveness as well as convenience makes it a helpful ally in your battle against excessive sugar intake.

Well, there you have it. If you’re thinking of cutting back on sugar, then I hope the information above is helpful. A lot of people fight this battle and while some get through it, some don’t. If you need assistance in this area of your life, give us a call at Stanly Wellness Center. We will do are very best to help you. Just remember, having small victories over sugar is a much better alternative than having diabetes.