Can't Kick the Sugar Cravings? Try This!

We're one week into the new year - How are your new year's resolutions going? If you resolved to remove or reduce sugar from your diet, but now you're having a hard time sticking to it, keep reading! Access Dental and Dentures has the tips to help you fight sugar cravings and improve your dental health through the whole year. 

AVOID These Things...

Avoid Stress & Triggers

While avoiding stress is sometimes easier said than done, there are other ways to help your body cope other than eating sweets. A few things you can try to help cope with stress are… meditation, yoga, exercise, etc.

Avoid triggers or tempting situations like grocery shopping while hungry, or attending a party on an empty stomach. If you know you will be attending a party where you will be surrounded by a lot of sweets, eat a meal that is high in protein before leaving and make sure you are well hydrated. Chew on a piece of gum during the party to help prevent absent-minded snacking as well.

Avoid Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are typically not actually better for you than traditional sugar. While both are bad for your health, artificial sweeteners can cause the signals that control appetite in your brain to get mixed up or ignored. Some sweeteners that are considered “healthy”, like Stevia, actually taste ten times sweeter than the average sweetener. If your taste buds develop an appetite for this sweeter flavor, it is likely that you will crave more of it in higher quantities.

DO These Things...

Eat More Protein

Protein is a necessary nutrient to our diets, and it also helps you feel full for longer. If you feel full throughout the day, you are less likely to feel like snacking on unhealthy treats and sweets. Protein can help diminish your cravings as well, because your body doesn’t feel like it is in need of more nutrients.

Drink Water

Sometimes the body can get confused and cross its signals. If you are craving something sweet, your body could actually just be dehydrated and in need of water. Drink a large glass of water when you experience unhealthy cravings or hunger outside of mealtime. This could help satiate your body enough to curb cravings so you can say “no” to the office candy dish.

Eat Fruit

Fruit contains natural sugars that are significantly better for you than table sugar. Eating a handful of berries or an apple could help satisfy your sweet tooth while also providing good vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your diet.

Southern Missouri Dentist

If you are having trouble reducing the sugar in your diet, these tips could help you! When you reduce the sugar content in your daily life, it can greatly benefit your dental health in addition to your overall health. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in southern Missouri, and we are here to help you stay healthy and happy. Give us a call to set up an appointment! 

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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