A sweet tooth is harmless; that is until it starts reaching levels in which you need sugar to function daily. The over-consumption of sugar can lead to dental, health, and overall wellness problems. Those who have a strong craving for sugar may be asking themselves the question, am I addicted to sugar? Listed below are signs that you may have a sugar addiction.
Always Craving Sugar
According to Healthline, “Sugar and other sweeteners are the main ingredients in some of America’s favorite drinks and foods. And they’ve become ingrained in the American diet, considering the average American consumes about 20 teaspoons, or 80 grams, of sugar a day.” Being that sugar is one of the main ingredients in some of the best-tasting food, it is hard not to crave that chocolate sundae or chocolate chip cookie. The real problem is when you are craving sugar more than normal.
Are you eating sugar for breakfast, lunch, and dinner? If you feel as though you need to consume sugar to be able to move on to your next task of the day, you know that the question, “Am I addicted to sugar?”, is more than likely true. Sugar should be consumed in a limited amount during the week, and you should not overdo it due to the risk of declining health. One of the biggest giveaways of sugar addiction is if you say, “one more wouldn’t hurt.” Because, we all know, that “one” is going to turn into numerous amounts more.
Guilty After Sugar Consumption
Feelings of guilt after consuming sugar is a way in which you can tell that you have a potential sugar addiction. It is not typically normal to feel guilty after eating food. Those who struggle with eating disorders can have a similar problem to those who have a sugar addiction because the feeling of guilt is present in both. If you are having feelings of guilt, whether that be from sugar consumption or food consumption in general, that is a good sign that seeking professional help may be of your best interest. Do not be ashamed of any problems that you may be suffering because there are people out there who are going through the same thing you are. Professionals are here to assist you, listen to you, and help pave the path to recovery. They are not going to judge you in any way, shape, or form.
Consume Sugar for Relief
Consuming sugar for mental or physical relief is not the answer. If you are relying on sugar to destress you and make you feel better, it is quite possibly a given that you have a sugar addiction. No one should be relying on one single thing to make them happy in life. If you need sugar to feel happy and/or content with yourself and your life, it may be time to seek professional help and treatment. Professionals will be more than happy to welcome you with open arms and get you back on track in reaching real and authentic happiness in yourself and your life.
Sugar Addiction Prevention
Ways in which you can prevent a sugar addiction are:
- Seek treatment and help by professionals
- Eat a healthy meal when you are hungry
- Do something to get your mind off of the craving
- Avoid triggers
- And, avoid stressful situations.
It may be a good idea to refrain from buying sugar at the grocery store, so when you go to your kitchen to get food, there is no sugar available for you to consume. You can also purchase healthy foods that mimic the taste of sugar to satisfy your sweet tooth.
If you are struggling with sugar addiction and want to make a positive change in your life, contact professionals who will be willing to assist you in your sugar addiction recovery. Mountain View Dental, located in Pleasant View, Utah, are here for you and all your dental advice, service, and needs. For further questions or to schedule an appointment, contact Mountain View Dental at (385) 324-3557.
