You might be addicted to sugar if you feel you are unable to stop eating it once you start. Although it might seem impossible to imagine going a day without a soda, cookie or candy bar, basic lifestyle changes can make the transition easier. Karly Randolph Pitman, author of the book "Overcoming Sugar Addiction," the key to kicking sugar is patience and the ability to stick it out through the first few weeks of detox.
Step 1
Keep your blood sugar stable by eating every two to four hours. Keeping yourself from becoming overly hungry can reduce the temptation to binge on junk food. Combine lean protein and complex carbohydrates for every mini-meal. Healthful examples include string cheese and whole-grain crackers, fruit and a handful of walnuts or nut butter on a rice cake.
Step 2
Replace refined carbohydrates such as white flour products and white rice with whole grains such as barley, quinoa and couscous. Whole grains contain lots of fiber to help keep you feeling full and do not lead to a dramatic insulin spike similar to refined carbs.
Step 3
Focus more on improving your health than losing weight. Eliminating sugar might lead to weight loss, but remind yourself that the biggest reason for quitting is overall health. When you feel tempted to eat something sweet, think about the benefits of high quality sleep, stable moods and steady energy.
Step 4
Drink plenty of water. Food cravings and a sense of hunger can actually be the result of thirst. Keep your body well-hydrated, consuming at least 64 oz. of water a day. Keeping water handy can make it more convenient for you to drink enough.
Step 5
Have a piece of fruit to combat a sugar craving. If you want a cookie, have an apple or handful of grapes, and wait 15 minutes. Often, the cookie craving will abate.
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