How to Stop Your Sugar Cravings

Whether your weakness is chocolate, lollies or soft drinks, almost everyone is guilty of giving in to sugar cravings from time to time. But while we all love an occasional sweet treat, sugar can actually do a lot of damage to our bodies when we have too much over time. An intense craving can be really hard to kick, but with the help of natural health supplements and organic teas it can actually be as simple as replacing a sugar-loaded treat with a warm drink or refreshing smoothie instead, and getting back on track towards a healthy diet and lifestyle.

What does sugar do to your body?

Here's what you need to know about sugar. When consumed, it turns into energy, but if you consume too much for your body to handle, it will turn into fat, so if you wolf down an entire packet of jelly snakes in one go then you can imagine where that sugar will end up. Sugar can also trigger a 'high' thanks to a flood of glucose reaching your body, followed by a crash when it becomes overloaded and overwhelmed. Too much sugar can put strain on your digestive system, pancreas and liver, and can also contribute to health problems which can start to develop later in life, such as obesity, diabetes and heart problems.¹ As many dentists will tell you, it's also harmful to our teeth, eating away at enamel, causing cavities and contributing to irreversible damage. My rule is everything in moderation, but it's great to cut out sugar wherever and whenever you can. To help quit sugar for good I highly recommend reading The Sarah Wilson I Quit Sugar books.

How to curb sugar cravings naturally

Amazonia Sugar Crave Release Spray
A product that has seriously changed my approach to sugar is Amazonia Sugar Crave Release Spray. Formulated by naturopaths and nutritionists to combat food cravings, this spray contains natural herbs and ingredients including Clove, Peppermint, Thyme and Fennel, and is designed to help break down and disperse any overgrowth of bad bacteria in the digestive tract, which can be the root cause of many sugar and carbohydrate cravings. It also comes in a really easy to use handbag sized spray bottle, so you can take it on the go with you whenever you feel a craving coming on. I keep mine right next to the family cookie jar! To use, spray directly onto the tongue and dilute with a drink of water.

Matcha Maiden Matcha Green Tea
The Matcha Maiden Matcha Green Tea is one I've replaced any sugary coffees or hot chocolates with as I love its earthy flavour. Can you believe one cup of this Matcha contains the same nutritional value of 10 cups of regular green tea? Regular consumption can be extremely beneficial for general health and well-being, so much better than any sugar-filled hot drink, Matcha is known for its natural energy and concentration boosting properties. Add half a teaspoon to hot water for a smooth, creamy hot drink or blend in smoothies or juices for a delicious morning or mid afternoon pick-me-up, I would avoid before bed if you find it hard to wind down and fall asleep.

The Beauty Chef BODY Powder Vanilla
If you find yourself in need of a sweet fix without the sugar hit, try the Beauty Chef BODY Vanilla Powder mixed in a smoothie or your choice of milk (I think it taste best with Almond Milk). Not only does it taste like a delicious vanilla milkshake, it is deigned to help boost metabolism to help burn body fat, it contains Organic Fermented Pea Protein, fibrous fruit and vegetable extracts and mind-stimulating Matcha Green Tea. I love using this nutrient rich powder in a morning smoothie as the combination of super fruits and vegetables, alkalising greens, spices and probiotics work to kick start digestion and curb sugar cravings so you can stay in control of your food consumption.

KOJA Almond & Berry Breakfast Topper
If you prefer to eat your breakfast with a spoon, try sprinkling the KOJA Almond & Berry Breakfast Topper over your morning cereal or smoothie bowl. This berry and nut blend tastes delicious and contains no added sugar, and it's packed with nutrient rich vitamins and minerals. Almonds are high in protein, good fats, antioxidants and Vitamin E, Cashews are packed with minerals like copper, magnesium, iron, and selenium.

Fruit herbal tea
Sometimes a sweet tasting fruit herbal tea like the Pukka Wild Apple & Cinnamon can really satisfy that 4pm sugar craving! This is an ideal substitute for a syrupy latte or hot chocolate that's loaded with sugar or artificial sweetener. This herbal tea contains 6% wild apple, chamomile flowers, sweet orange, Cardamom & Cloves, and tastes like sweet Apple Pie. Pukka Teas also certified carbon neutral, FairWild & Ethically sourced, Certified Organic, Caffeine free, Vegan and use biodegradable teabags.

Source: ¹Women's Health.