Sugar is an energy source that’s fine in moderation; however, many Americans have a tendency to overindulge. Unfortunately, a sugar addiction can be a hard thing to shake. If you have sugar cravings and you want to avoid a sugar crash, you’ll need Mindful tips to beat your sweet addiction.

How Bad is Our Sugar Addiction?

Believe it or not, sugar can become an addiction. It activates the “reward center” of the brain, which encourages us to eat more than is necessary. Americans’ sugar addiction has gotten worse over the years. In 1822, the average American consumed 45 grams of sugar every five days, that’s the equivalent of a 12-ounce can of soda. Today, the average American consumes 765 grams of sugar every five days, that’s the equivalent of 17 cans of sodas. This is becoming a major problem for Americans as sugar lacks nutritional benefit for the body and too much of it can lead to major health consequences like sugar crashes, anxiety, chronic fatigue, headaches, and even obesity.

6 Mindful Tips for Stopping Sugar Cravings

Become Informed

Most of Americans are living a very busy lifestyle on very little rest. That’s why sugary, caffeinated drinks have become so popular. Unfortunately, a typical Starbucks latte can have up to 35 grams of sugar, a twelve-ounce can of soda typically have 39 grams of sugar, and energy drinks generally have 34 grams or more of sugar.

Use Energy Alternatives

Reduce your sugar intake and boost your energy by considering other alternatives. Eating foods rich in vitamin C can boost your energy. Half of a papaya has 150 percent of your vitamin C daily needs and contains only nine grams of sugar. Half a cup of strawberries has 149 percent of your vitamin C daily needs and contains only seven grams of sugar.

Try Fruit

Instead of baked desserts like cookies and cakes, consider eating fruit. Fruit contains sugar too but it also has other healthy nutrients like vitamins, proteins, and minerals. You can try them fresh, frozen, or dried (however, beware that canned fruit has a lot of added sugar).

Try Sugar-free Desserts

Or, if you aren’t ready to give up your desserts, try making new sugar free desserts like No-Bake Energy Balls. These energy balls are made with coconut flakes, honey, oats, and other ingredients. They are low in sugar and rich in vitamin B1, iron, and protein.

Use Sugar Substitutes

If you are looking for sugar substitutes for your latest recipe, there are many different alternatives you can try. Some common sugar substitutes include agave nectar, honey, molasses, or even cane juice. In general, these options are better for your health. However, these options are still sugar, so remember that moderation is key.

Beware of Hidden Sugars

A large amount of sugar is hidden in various foods, not just your sweet treats. So to benefit your health and kick your sugar addiction, be on the lookout for hidden sugars. For instance, two tablespoons of barbecue sauce can contain 13 grams of sugar, half a cup of pasta sauce has 12 grams of sugar, and sweet and sour chicken has 19 grams of sugar. For more hidden sugary foods check out this link.