Sugar is everywhere you look, and you may come from some amazing places. Did you know that most whole grain breads have only one type of sugar in them? We have a wonderful national dental epidemic. Even if you do not eat a lot of sugary foods, you may still have high cravings for sugar in the first few weeks of the Atkins diet. Too many “healthy” carbohydrate foods are high in sugar, and your body may have a problem with withdrawal.
The problem with sugar is that your blood sugar is tied to your energy levels and your whole life. When your blood sugar is too low, you will have big cravings. High blood sugar is the result of eating a high-sugar diet. If you eat high sugar, your blood sugar will rise to higher levels. Your pancreas thinks something is wrong and releases insulin to lower your blood sugar. As this happens more often, you can create pre-diabetes conditions in your body as your pancreas gets older and eventually unable to produce insulin.
Fortunately, getting started with the Atkins diet can stop this cycle. However, this does not mean that sugar cravings go away automatically. Sugar products are everywhere, and temptation is sometimes hard to fight.
The best way to deal with sugar cravings is to plan ahead. If you keep a balance of protein, fat and fiber in your daily diet, you will prevent blood sugar levels leading to sugar cravings. Also, do not go too far between meals. Snacks are an important part of maintaining blood sugar. Have a healthy snack such as cheese, nuts, seeds and boiled eggs in your hand, so you can quickly stabilize your blood sugar without turning to candy.
Diabetes cravings can also be a sign of malnutrition. If you have low magnesium, you will crave chocolate and other sweets. Zinc and chromium can also curb sugar cravings. If you do not take a good multivitamin supplement with these minerals, start immediately. If so, you are in for a treat.
Another tactic is to brush your teeth. Many Atkins dieters find that brushing their teeth or using Listerine breath strips can help with cravings. Both methods will close your mouth and prevent you from looking for food. Drinking two large glasses of water can also help to relieve cravings. If your stomach is full, then you will not be less likely to get sugary foods.
Sometimes without seeing, without the mind, is the best way. If you find yourself at home, leave. Anxiety will make you forget to crave your sugar faster. Calling your friend for support or attending an Atkins support forum can also go a long way in preventing you from succumbing to your craving for sugar.
Having a low-carb version of your favorite treat is another great idea. You are less likely to feel deprived if you can get a low-carb diet. There are many types of low-carb products available on the market that can beat your sweet tooth. Low-carb yogurt, chocolate, ice cream and sweets can all help you stay on the Atkins diet and find something delicious to eat.
Diabetes cravings are sure to follow the Atkins program, but previous tips will help you win and stay committed to your weight loss efforts.
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