When I was speaking to my mother-in-law recently, she began telling me how she heard that chewing and then sucking on cinnamon sticks helps reduce sugar cravings. "Mom!" I said, "Did you know that I am about to kickoff a Sugar Detox Challenge, and I can't wait to share this with them?" Of course she was so glad to be of help. :)
So I did a little research, and here's what I found.
Agreed! Cinnamon has been shown to reduce sugar cravings by helping to regulate blood sugar levels. It also has a satiating effect, helping you feel fuller for longer, preventing you from overeating sugary snacks. The most effective is Ceylon cinnamon, who's active ingredient, Cinnamaldehyde, is noted to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and lowers blood pressure and lipids, amongst other benefits. Always a good thing!
Here are some ideas of how to use cinnamon to kick those cravings:
Drink a mug of cinnamon tea which helps control your appetite as well.
Sprinkle cinnamon on your oatmeal, overnight oats, chia pudding, fruit, baked apple, or in your applesauce. These are especially good warm. Hmmm, I can smell it now!
Add a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle or two to your coffee for a gourmet treat.
Suck on a cinnamon stick until it is soft enough to chew. It will help to freshen your breath and satisfy your sweet tooth all at once. Thanks, Mom!
Experiencing sugar cravings can be really hard to fight. Whether you’re trying to cut back on sweets or simply want to understand why it's almost impossible to resist that piece of fresh chocolate babka, it’s helpful to know what causes these cravings in the first place.
Sugar cravings are usually caused by a drop in blood sugar levels, often triggered by skipping meals, emotional stress or hormonal changes. It's also caused by our brain being reminded of the pleasurable feelings it gets when eating sugar (dopamine hit), and wants a repeat! And the more we indulge in this pleasure, the more the body starts to "need" it and makes sure you provide it by sending in the "munchies monsters."
While there’s nothing wrong with indulging in a sweet treat every once in a while, it’s important to be conscientious of your sugar intake, where it is hiding in the foods you eat, and how it's negatively affecting your health. If you find yourself craving sugar on a regular basis, it may be time to reassess your diet and make some changes.
If you or someone you love is struggling to find balance in their life when it comes to food choices, please reach out. No one has to suffer from the addictive qualities of sugar. You can break this vicious cycle and BS"D, I am here to help.
Check out my course Healthy. Fit. Free. Nutrition, where I teach you the ins and outs of real nutrition and how to make healthy easy and delicious. Where YOU, NOT YOUR CRAVINGS, are in charge of your food choices and your health!
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