Addicted to Sugar

Food addictions are yet to be completely understood, but there are an increasing number of research studies being done.

Those studies suggest that overeating may weaken the pleasure responses triggered from eating food, causing you to eat more. Since it is more common to over eat foods that are calorie dense and sweet, sugar is the most dangerous culprit. Studies show that when sugar is consumed, overeating often follows due to the euphoria that sugar causes. As a tolerance for sugar is built up, an increased amount of sugar is needed to achieve that same euphoric feeling. When the sugar is removed, withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, and shakes can result.

So, what can be done?

Be aware of external cues such as smells and pictures of food that can cause increased cravings.
Eat healthy foods such as proteins, fruits and vegetables. The healthier you eat, the more likely you are to crave foods that are good for you.
Distract yourself from your cravings, and eventually you will find they are easier to ignore.
Lastly, exercise. Exercise can increase feelings of joy to replace those you’d normally get from sugar.