1. Sleep
Getting the optimal amount of sleep for your body helps to manage blood sugar and energy levels. When energy levels dip, sugar cravings skyrocket.
2. Drink water
Stay hydrated to make sure you’re feeling hunger and NOT thirst. These physical sensations are very similar and are often confused for one another.
3. Be prepared
Having the right foods on hand and prepared can mean the difference between feeling confident and completely overwhelmed and emotionally vulnerable to giving into cravings.
4. Enlist a friend
Experiencing this challenge with the support of a co-worker, friend or family member can make all the difference and set you up for success.
5. Learn to enjoy herbal tea
You can drink an unlimited amount of herbal tea (without caffeine). Finding a favorite, luxurious tea can help to fulfill cravings. Some teas are naturally sweet and quite yummy!
6. Protein
Always reach for the protein first, then fat, then veggies. That’s how you build a plate whether it’s a meal or a snack.
7. Prep Snacks
When splitting up prepared meals, set aside a small quantity in a container for a snack. When snacks are mini meals they are often more filling than single food group items (only nuts, or only fruit).
8. Go for a walk
Distracting with physical activity can help to curve cravings and re-focus your attention on your goals.
9. Reduce caffeine
Caffeine puts a lot of pressure on the adrenal glands which also strongly influence sugar cravings. If you’re struggling to stay track, focus on reducing your caffeine intake especially over the first week. Over time, you will notice an increase in energy, decreased need for caffeine and ultimately better functioning adrenal glands and therefore a decreased need for sugar derived energy surges.
10. Breathe, meditate or just relax!
Stressing about anything, especially a healthy lifestyle shift such as this detox will only make you crave more sugar! Stress depletes the adrenal gland (see above’s explanation of #9). Do your best to stick to your original goals, if it’s just not effective revisit your intention and shift it slightly to better represent your needs and set you up to succeed.
