Marissa Nieves, Fitness Expert for the April Sugar Detox Challenge shares some great tips to try when those cravings hit:
 
How do we curb our cravings for sweet tasty treats so we aren’t left feeling sluggish and unhappy after overindulging?
Try these 5 tricks to help you stay in control of your appetite and energy when sugar cravings and temptation strike:

1) Reduce Stress

Studies show a direct correlation between feeling stressed and reaching for an unhealthy snack. The stress chemicals released in the brain often lead to increased sugar and fat cravings. If you are feeling stressed, check in with yourself to see if you have been in overdrive lately. Maybe it’s time to give back to yourself a little? Schedule a day to indulge in some feel good activities, go somewhere fun, pamper your body, relax in some personal time or spark your creativity and do what makes you happy.

2) Balance Blood Sugar

If you are at the peak of your hunger and your stomach is talking to you, your body is in major need of nourishment and blood sugar is likely low. Regulate your hunger patterns by eating before your tummy gives you the warning and ensure you are eating enough to sustain you. You may like to increase your intake of good fats and protein to help you feel full and curb cravings. Have handy protein snacks on hand for while you are out so you never have to go hungry.

3) Do Something Else

We all know when we have craving on the brain, it can be hard to let it go. Studies show that quickly changing the thought process behind the craving, by doing a puzzle or playing a game, can reduce the feeling or eliminate the craving altogether. When a craving pops into your head, swap the thought for something else or choose an activity that will take your mind to a new place. List a few ‘go-to’ activities so you are ready when the craving arrives.

4) Drink Water

We all know drinking water is essential for increasing metabolism, energy and burning fat. However, it may also be our best friend in the elimination of food cravings. When we are thirsty, the body’s thirst mechanism is triggered and we sometimes receive this message as the body requiring food. This confusing mixed message makes it easy for temptations to kick in, leading us to pick up a sugary treat rather than reach for a glass of water. Staying hydrated will help to curb cravings and know whether we are thirsty or hungry.

5) Breathe

When we shallow breathe our body’s ability to deliver oxygen to our cells is reduced. However, the body’s need for energy is still high which means we may turn to sugar or caffeine to get a quick fix of energy. Try this simple breathing exercise when your energy is low and cravings are high. Breathe in through your nose and let your belly rise, then breathe out a long breathe through your mouth. Next, breathe in for a count of 2 and breathe out for a count of 4. As you breathe in, picture yourself breathing in pure oxygen and energy and as you breathe out, visualise yourself breathing out harmful toxins and lethargy.
There are numerous strategies to remove sugar cravings. You may like to try all of these suggestions and choose what works best for you. Allow yourself time to make new changes and remember to go easy on yourself if it doesn’t all happen at once. Celebrate the cravings you are able to reduce or shift and the rest will come with time!
Marissa Nieves, Fitness Expert