Like any addiction, a sugar addiction can be difficult to quit. Eating too much sugar does nothing for your health; sugar is high in calories and empty carbohydrates. According to MayoClinic.com, sugar can lead to tooth decay, poor nutrition, weight gain, and increased risk of heart disease. Cutting sugar out of your life immediately and completely can be counterproductive; the intense cravings may cause you to cave and eat even more sugar than you would have otherwise.
Step 1
Start by reducing the amount of sugar you eat on a daily basis. Cut your total intake by about 25 percent the first week, 50 percent the second week and 75 percent the third week; adjust the percentages to suit your individual needs. If you have a serious addiction or if you eat a great deal of sugar, you may need to take longer; listen to your body to determine what is right for you. By eliminating sugar gradually, you can avoid withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Step 2
Make it difficult to eat sugar at home by getting rid of all of the sweet junk food and sugar in your cupboards. Don't count on your force of will to carry you through the cravings; throw everything out or give it to a friend. When you have the urge to eat sugar, eat a piece of fruit for a quick sweet taste. If the craving persists, force yourself to wait ten minutes before getting in the car to drive to the store. The extra time can be enough to allow your mind to win.
Step 3
Replace some of your sugar intake with other sweeteners that have less of an impact on your body. Instead of putting sugar in your coffee, use agave, which has a lower glycemic index. You can also try stevia, fruit juice, or xylitol. According to Dr. Stan Gardner, doing so can satisfy the cravings without exposing you to the negative health impacts of real sugar.
Step 4
Keep your blood sugar stable by eating a healthy balance of foods. Eat regular meals to avoid causing low blood sugar, which can lead to sugar cravings. Aim for balanced meals of whole, unprocessed foods. Avoid processed foods, which can contain large amounts of added sugar that contributes to your addiction.
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