This is a common one for most people the world over – the developed world at least.
The problem starts early in life, very early.
As I see it our reliance/addiction to sugar is down to two reasons:
1 – Behavioural – As kids we were given nice, tasty, often sugar infested food as a treat or when we were good – we then associate that taste with reward and feeling better. As adults then if we feel in any way vulnerable, physically or emotionally it is sugar which can give us temporary relief.
2 – Physiological – You’ve probably heard sugar compared to heroin in its addictive qualities. I think this is going a bit far (I’ve watched trainspotting), but there is numerous research/evidence pointing towards our physical addiction to sugar. Just google sugar addiction for more on this, otherwise this email will become a little to encyclopaedic.
As athletes we have another factor – excessive aerobic exercise which in turn will lead to decrease in blood sugar and hence desire for more.
Is it a coincidence most people crave sugar in the evenings, the time after they have usually trained?
So what to do?
There are short and longterm strategies here.
Now I am guessing you are not too interested in the long term, most people want it now – if you are click this link on how I can help (only one space though) – http://www.nutri-tri.com/coaching-plans/.
The longterm plan basically means you need to make some subtle changes which over time will mean big changes in how you feel and perform – changes which will serve you and your family well for a lifetime.
In the short term, unfortunately willpower is not enough.
You can apply strategies such as replacing poor sugar sources with better ones by eating such things as:
– Fruit
– Dark Chocolate
– Manuka Honey
– Tasty protein bars (more on that another time)
– OR, try brushing your teeth – weird I know but works.
Essentially though you need to reeducate your brain, palate and physiology.
Part of this reeducation is a long term change but you can get changes in as little as 1-2 weeks.
If you can minimise your body’s fluctuations in blood sugar this will help. This means eating a diet higher in fibre, protein and healthy fat all of which will help keep blood sugars stable.
This is likely information you’ve hear before – I am sorry there is no magic bullet.
Dealing with this properly means making a real commitment to change and that is going to be tough – something most people just won’t be prepared to do.
The timing and reduction/removal of processed foods will also help with this but I’ve covered that before.
Jamie “I am NOT sweet enough” Leighton