7 Ways to Beat a Sweet Tooth

The dreaded sweet tooth – so many of us have one and it can be oh so difficult to get rid of! Here are some of my favorite tips to help you power through your sweet tooth.

Get rid of processed foods. If you can’t wrap your head around completely eliminating them at the very least reduce them- in a big way! Refined carbohydrates are high on the glycemic index and can create an insulin spike ,which will inevitably lead to a drop and then a craving for sugar. It you do reach for some crackers or crave pasta make sure to add healthy fats and protein to prevent the insulin spikes.

Add healthy fats to your diet. Too many of us are terrified of fats but they are a very important addition to a healthy diet and can even help us combat cravings. Healthy fats like coconut oil, olive oil, pastured butter and nuts and seeds are easy ways to incorporate healthy fats. Switching to grass fed and organic animal protein will get you even more healthy fats and fewer toxic chemicals.

Eat more sweet veggies. Eating sweet veggies on a regular basis (think everyday) can help you combat sweet cravings. Sweet red peppers and carrots are great for snacking on with some hummus. Sweet potatoes, winter squashes, onions and even carrots are delicious roasted in some coconut oil and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Eat natures candy. Fruit that’s in season is so delicious you probably won’t even crave candy. Berries are an excellent option but get creative and try different things. Stick to local, seasonal fruits so you can properly nourish your body.

Reduce caffeine. If you can manage to eliminate it completely that’s even better! Too much caffeine can cause dehydration and blood sugar swings which will lead to cravings.

Check in with yourself. Sometimes a craving for something sweet it really the a craving for something sweet that’s non-food. Take a moment to check in with yourself emotionally before giving in to your sweet tooth. Try journaling, asking yourself questions or even taking a few deep breaths.

Take some glutamine. Studies have shown that cravings for sweets can be due to a lack of a specific amino acid. Correct supplementation of L-glutamine for a few weeks may help you get through the initial rough spot. To find out how, read this article I wrote for Fox News on the 5 Top Fat Burning Supplements.