Sugar has a powerful effect on the brain. It secretes serotonin, one of the hormones linked to happiness. Therefore, it provides a feeling of immediate pleasure and well-being.
Furthermore, by producing glucose spikes, many people feel the need to constantly consume this type of food, “up to addictive behavior”pointed out the Spanish edition of Hello the Dietist magazine Yolanda MassaDiploma in human nutrition and dietetics from the Autonomous University of Madrid.
One of the causes of this compulsion “could be linked to childhood experiences, a very important stage for the development of food preferences and the relationship with food,” explained Masa.
If sweets have been rewarded or very tempting options have often been offered, there will be a greater predisposition to develop spillover behaviors. The same can happen if the restriction is too severe.
On the other hand, this urge to eat something sweet at any time may also be related “with high insulin levels due to poor diet or a metabolic problem”, he comments.
Why cut back on sugar
The reason experts keep pointing out is which is a high-calorie food with very low nutritional density. What is called with empty calories.
“Their benefits are slim. With which, its consumption should be very sporadic or almost nil”, adds Masa.
Also, these foods are very high in fat. Which negatively affects cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
The anti-sugar operation
A concept to keep in mind: “When the diet is complete, varied and balanced, the craving for sweets is less or more easily controlled”says the aforementioned nutrition expert.
Therefore, the first step in controlling sugar addiction is review typical meals and implement any necessary changes.
Then, implement some specific strategies. For this, Hola magazine offers these tips.
– Plan your meals and distribute them with balance. This will help avoid cravings and keep your glucose levels stable.
– Gradually reduce your intake of foods with sugar and replace them with fruit.
– Find the healthiest sweets. Between them:
. Chocolate with 80% cocoa.
. Sugar-free flavored jellies.
. Oatmeal porridge with banana and cinnamon.
. Milk or vegetable drink with cinnamon or grated coconut.
. Homemade biscuits with wholemeal flour and hazelnut or dark chocolate toppings.
Source: Clarin
Mary Ortiz is a seasoned journalist with a passion for world events. As a writer for News Rebeat, she brings a fresh perspective to the latest global happenings and provides in-depth coverage that offers a deeper understanding of the world around us.