January is usually the time of year we see an increased focus on health and wellness and health experts agree that cutting back on sugar is a great place to start. When reducing the amount of sugar that you consume, you will probably be challenged by sugar cravings. Here are our tips so you know how to curb sugar cravings.
CRAVING VS. HUNGER
There’s a difference between actually being hungry and just having a craving and it’s important to be able to distinguish between the two. A craving isn’t your body’s signal that it needs energy in the form of food. It is your brain’s way of asking you to give it something to release feel-good hormones. That’s why when you are hungry and a craving hits, it’s even harder to resist.
To manage this, eat a healthy snack or a nutrient-dense meal. A high protein/high fiber option is best as it helps you feel fuller for longer.
THE POWER OF A HOT SHOWER
When a sugar craving strikes, a hot bath or shower can work wonders! It might sound a little out there, but if you shower under hot water for a couple of minutes, you will likely lose your craving. Think of how you feel after a hot bath…sometimes a little dazed. It’s easy to see how a hot shower might be helpful in curbing sugar cravings.
MOVE YOUR BODY
Many people also pick up exercise during this time of year as a New Year’s resolution, so why not combine the two? If all you can think about is a cookie, a good way to distract yourself while also improving your health and wellness is to get moving. Exercise releases feel-good endorphins that can also help turn off your sugar craving.
IT’S ALL ABOUT BALANCE
Cutting back on sugar is great, but it’s also okay to indulge in a sweet treat every now and then. After all, life is all about balance! To learn more about how to create balance in your life and achieve true health and wellness, click here to contact your local Rochelle, IL chiropractor. At Wills Chiropractic, we are committed to bringing better health to patients of all ages by teaching the principles of chiropractic wellness care.