Have a sweet tooth

So you have a sweet tooth?  Sugar is addictive and maybe one of the most addictive substances that are easily accessible because sugar is in everything.  But, the effect sugar can have on our bodies, like our hormones, can be devastating.

Why is sugar so addictive?

Consuming sugar releases chemicals in our bodies like dopamine.  It’s basically a reward for our bodies and we like it.

It makes us feel good…well, until it doesn’t.  Your blood sugar goes up and then it crashes making us feel awful.

Effects of having a sweet tooth

Here are some effects having a sweet tooth can have on our bodies:

• Anger (for no apparent reason)
• Concentration issues
• Tiredness
• Headaches
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Depression
• Inability to sleep
• Skin issues
• Hormonal issues
• Major blood sugar fluctuations

Having a big sweet tooth can be a BIG problem!

Added Sugars to avoid

• Regular ‘ole sugar – this is the granulated, caster sugar, we generally use in baking.
• Brown sugar – also used in baking
• Corn syrup – you will find this in lots of packaged food products and is also used in baking.
• High fructose corn syrup – a top ingredient in many foods.  Watch out for this one.

Don’t be fooled by natural sugars such as:

• Honey
• Fruit
• Maple syrup

While these may be natural, they still have the same blood sugar effect.  They will raise blood sugar and cause all those same problems discussed above if we eat too much of them.

Moderation

They always say, do everything in moderation.  I get it, it’s hard to stop eating something, whether it be sweets, dairy, or anything else you ‘love’ – I’m talking carbs here.  For my sweet tooth, I will indulge in a treat here and there but not every day.  It’s OK to enjoy a holiday or a birthday celebration because without those celebrations, you’re not living life.  But, that doesn’t mean you have to eat the whole cake or all of the Halloween candy!

Have a sweet tooth?  Have a treat now and again, watch food labels, and start to feel better everyday!  I promise!