We’ve all been there – bad grade at school, tough day at work, or a bad breakup, and we find ourselves bingeing on life-saving ice cream or chocolate. It is not rare that mood swings influence our need for sugar. This happens since our serotonin levels decrease in negative circumstances, and being quick gratification creatures we are, our bodies crave instant dose.
Since sugar acts miraculously quickly and is digested fast, it is no wonder that sugary treat is the first food that comes to our mind in times of emotional distress. As the 2016 study [1] suggests “Lower levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT; serotonin) in the brain elicit sugar craving, while ingestion of sugar rich diet improves mood and alleviates anxiety.”
This type of behavior can lead to serious sugar addiction, one not much different than a drug addiction. Although it is not entirely the same as drug addiction, sugar addiction affects human behavior in a similar manner. Most of us would simply mistake sugar addiction for sugar craving, yet the repetitive craving and indulging in sugary snacks, creates a vicious addictive circle, making each next craving much more intense.
Sugar affects our brain in a fast and powerful way. As with any other drug, dopamine levels are increased in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) – the reward center of the brain. [2] The brain then easily forms dependency and lessened sensitivity to sugar, which result in more intense craving and the need for greater dosage each next time. As a result, sugar addiction causes similar symptoms as drug addiction as it follows a familiar pattern that includes:
Signs Where You Have to Re-Evaluate Your Sugar Crave
Bingeing
Larger amounts of the drug are needed due to greater tolerance. [3] Each time we consume food high in sugar, we develop stronger tolerance, and therefore, the same amount of sugar won’t be enough each next time. [4]
Withdrawal
Sugar withdrawal shows signs symptomatic of a drug withdrawal behavior. [5]
Craving
“Sugar deprivation effect” influences enhanced intake after abstinence [6] and greater urge to procure sugar.
Cross-Sensitization
Sugar addiction shows cross-sensitization with other drugs of abuse [7], which is a common drug addiction symptom.
Even though sugar is not as seriously hazardous as drugs of abuse, removing it from our diet seems almost impossible due to its powerful effect on reward system in our brain. Since award craving is not just reserved for stressful situations, cutting sugar can be a truly challenging process.
However, there is no need for panic if your sugar cravings are not frequent or excessive, since not every single need for instant boost can be described as sugar addiction. There are clear signs of sugar addiction which are a warning sign that you may have become addicted to sugar. For most sugar addicts it is common to make unreasonable excuses for their dietary choice.
Additionally, buying, stashing and binge-eating sugar when alone is your daily habit. Moreover, you use sugar both as a reward and as a mood elevator. Finally, you are well aware that quitting sugar is almost impossible since you have probably tried it a couple of times, only to return to your usual pattern.
Although highly challenging, removing sugar from our diet is still possible. With the right medical advice, and by following some of the most effective sugar detox methods, sugar addiction can be overcome in a matter of days. Here are 5 most effective ways to deal with sugar addiction.
Put a Curb to Your Bottomless Sugar Crave
Allow for one sugary meal a day
In order to control your sugar cravings, make sure to find a way to lessen the cravings caused by a sudden withdrawal. Instead of cutting all sugar from each meal or snack you eat during a day, opt for one meal a day method. By cutting one sugar infused meal a day, you will be able to gradually instill a more healthy diet.
Get rid of the hidden sugary paradise
Most sugary addicts have a secret sweets stash in their home and office. In order to not fall into the craving trap, make sure to get rid of any temptations.
Look for cleaner substitutes (Fruits will do)
Breaking a habit is quite challenging, particularly in situations that trigger our addictive behavior. I order not to relapse in stressful situations, always carry a piece of fruit with you. Fruit will give you enough sugar for your body and brain to cope with any situation, yet fruit sugar is a much healthier and cleaner choice.
Let magnesium do the job
As sugar craving is associated with lower levels of magnesium, include magnesium rich foods into your diet in order to reduce urge for sugar. Great sources of magnesium include dark leafy greens, tofu, legumes and nuts.
You won’t binge if you don’t think about it
As with any other type of addiction, sugar addiction requires certain distractions to help overcome the initial withdrawal struggle. Create a distraction plan filled with enjoyable and mind-occupying activities such as walking in nature, reading, painting or swimming, to help you take your mind off of sugar craving.
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