Cravings. That’s when your brain, deprived of sugar, throws a fit like a 2-year old until it gets its way.
Reward the 2-year old in your head and the cycle will never cease…
The thing is, most of us mix up cravings with hunger. How can you tell the difference between them?
When you are thinking “man, I can’t wait to go home and have a big salad tonight” that’s hunger. Hunger is the grown-up voice calmly telling you it’s time to eat.
Cravings, on the other, hand sound like this: “I can’t LIVE without that COOKIE!!! GIMME THAT COOKIE NOW! I NEEEEEEED THAT COOKIE!”
Here are 3 Ways to Silence the 2-Year Old:
- Understand that most cravings are brought on by emotion: stress, anger, boredom, sadness, memories and even just being happy. Find another way to deal with that emotion. Walking has been shown to ease emotions like stress and anger, so head outside and get some fresh air!
- Try eating some protein and healthy fats. They will quiet the sugar fit by letting your brain know that your body is full and happy
- Cravings and fatigue go hand-in-hand. When you are not getting enough sleep, you crave sugars and carbohydrates for energy. Send that 2-year old for a nap instead.
Thanks for the help in this area .i figured out sugar is my number one down fall,that was holding my weight not to go down
Sugar is my problem as well. I would like to give it up for 30 days. Detox. Wonder if that would help.
I have chronic fatigue and giving up sugar this past month has made a world of difference. Have much more energy! -Susan
Hi Susan!
Yes, I had the same experience when I removed sugar from my diet. My chronic fatigue symptoms diminished within a few weeks. That is one of the biggest motivators to never go back into a sugar ‘coma’ again. Good for you in taking this important step in your life! Keep up the great work, and keep us posted. (: