A 5-Step Solution to Sugar Cravings

There are some lucky people who don’t have much of a taste for sugar, however, there are many that struggle with either sugar addiction or at least daily or weekly sugar cravings. I definitely have my moments.

The sugar high and subsequent crash is inevitable and then comes the long-term effects like digestive issues and lowered immunity. Needless to say, sugar is not worth suffering for – and our skin is one of the first places to pay the price, whether it’s a dull complexion, a blemish or serious acne. So what’s the solution? By now we know we can’t simply turn to willpower – our will is the weakest part of us.

Sugar cravings can have a physical, emotional, relational or lifestyle root – imbalances in each of these areas all contribute to cravings. I offer you a sustainable solution to sugar cravings in just five simple steps – that not only curb cravings but are also a super booster to skin health.

1. Drink more water. Water is a simple step we can take to remedy dry winter skin – and also remedy a sugar craving. Oftentimes we feel hungry and want the energy from sugar when we’re just dehydrated. Next time, try drinking a big glass of water before reaching for the sugary snack and see how you feel. Tip: Get a good water purifier at home and use a water bottle throughout the day. Drink half your body weight in ounces, so if you weigh 100 pounds, you will need 50 ounces of water daily.

2. Eat greens. Crowd out sugar cravings with dark leafy greens. Not only are greens the most nutrient dense vegetables in the world, but they also make our skin glow, so we love them. Tip: Make a green smoothie or add some steamed kale to your daily lunch and the flood of nutrients in your body will replenish essential nutrients that might have been lacking causing unhealthy cravings, while making you feel satiated.

3. Use fruit. To prepare for the next time a craving hits, have a healthy sweet option on hand and stock the fridge with some of your favorite seasonal organic fruits. Fruit can still be high in sugar sometimes, but it’s also packed with vitamins and antioxidants that prevent skin from aging. Tip: I love chopping up a whole pineapple into small squares and freezing it if it’s summer or just putting it in a glass bowl or jar and munching on some pieces as a healthy snack – you can do this with any fruit you love. Cooking and baking with fruit in the winter months can be satisfying and comforting.

4. Natural sweeteners. There are so many natural sugar options available now that are less damaging and harsh than refined sugar. A few of my favorites are raw honey, maple syrup and coconut sugar. They’re versatile and easy to use, whether I’m baking or just making a cup of tea. It’s still best to use natural sweeteners minimally because sugar is sugar. Tip: Take advantage of the winter months and bake at home – you can control the amount and quality of the sugar when you make it yourself.

5. Rest and relaxation. Sometimes stress can run high and this will affect our mood, and our actions and choices – sometimes leading to unhealthy choices. Make daily quiet time for yourself, without distractions, so you can rest and reset. Sometimes we just need a nap or deep breath – and we can beat an unhealthy craving like sugar. Tip: Set apart a time of the day that you can hop in bed or find a cozy spot in your home to have a cup of tea, close your eyes, or read a book.

– Siobhan

ORGANIC BEAUTY BEGINNING WITHIN