About Sugar Cravings

Sugar cravings are a common problem for many people. So common, in fact, that many attribute their inability to lose weight to a constant (and strong) need to consume sugar on a daily basis. For most people, battling sugar cravings is not a question of willpower, as there are real, physical reasons for it.

Insight

• Sugar cravings may be an indication of low serotonin. Low levels of serotonin, the "feel-good" hormone, can lead to depression, low energy or feelings of sadness. Sugars in general, but especially simple sugars, like those present in sweets and white flour, are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, causing a surge of serotonin. The high is short-lived, however, and once the levels go down, sugar cravings are likely to kick in again, since the body will be craving more serotonin.

Considerations

• The more sugar is consumed, the more the body craves. Sugars cause a surge in insulin once consumed, which in turn causes more cravings once the level of insulin starts to go down. Simple sugars cause a more rapid up and down of sugar, which is why nutritionists recommend sticking to whole grains, since the release of glucose (blood sugar) is slower and would likely not cause cravings.

Effects

• Stress can also lead to sugar cravings. When the body is under duress, either physical or mental, the adrenals secrete adrenaline, which help the body fight stress more effectively by making the body more responsive to external stressors. Once adrenaline starts going dwindling down, however, energy drops considerably, forcing the body to crave a quick source of energy. Since sugars can provide a peak of energy within minutes of being consumed, this is most likely what cravings will point to.

Significance

• People who skip meals, especially breakfast, are more likely to experience sugar cravings. Whole, healthy food consumed every three to four hours keeps the blood sugar stabilized, reducing hunger and maintaining a good overall sense of energy and well being. When meals are skipped, the level of glucose drops considerably, leading the body to look for a quick surge of energy: simple sugars.

Warning

• Eating too much often has the same effect on the body as eating too little. Because overeating causes sluggishness, it can push the body to look for stimulants to help it regain the lost energy. In some people, this takes the form of coffee, while in others it makes them reach for sugar. A good way to prevent this is to eat frequent small meals, rather than a couple of large ones, especially at night.