Sugar addiction: understanding and overcoming it

Sugar is an integral part of our daily diet, but excessive consumption can lead to a real addiction. Sugar addiction affects well-being in a number of ways. Fortunately, there are natural solutions.

In this article, find out what sugar addiction is and if you suffer from it, the harmful effects on your health and natural ways to help regain control. The naturopaths and nutrition consultants at La Moisson are available at all times to help you with personalised advice.

Sugar, carbohydrates and fibre: do you know the difference?

To better understand sugar addiction, it's important to distinguish between the key terms: carbohydrates, sugars and fibre.

• Carbohydrates: These are our body's main sources of energy. They are found in foods such as cereals, fruit, vegetables and dairy products. All sugars are carbohydrates, but not all carbohydrates are sugars.
• Sugars: Natural vs. industrial

Sugars are simple carbohydrates that are quickly absorbed by the body. They are found in two main forms:

Natural sugars: Found in fruit and vegetables, these sugars are accompanied by fibre, vitamins and minerals, which slows their absorption and offers nutritional benefits. For example, eating a whole piece of fruit provides energy as well as essential nutrients.

Industrial sugars: These added sugars, often found in processed foods, desserts and sweetened drinks, are devoid of fibre and beneficial nutrients. They provide quick energy, but excessive consumption can lead to blood sugar spikes, cravings and adverse health effects.

• Fibre: These are non-digestible carbohydrates that do not convert into sugar in the blood. They help to regulate digestion, reduce blood sugar levels and maintain good intestinal health. They are found in fruit, vegetables, whole grains and legumes.

What is sugar addiction?

Sugar addiction occurs when the brain becomes dependent on the pleasure hormone dopamine, which is released when sugar is consumed. As a result of consuming sugary foods, a cycle can creep up and you will feel the intense need to consume them in order to maintain this level of pleasure.

Signs of sugar addiction

Here are a few signs that you may be suffering from a sugar addiction:

• Intense cravings for sweets that only disappear when sugar is consumed
• Constant need to add sugar to your food or drinks
• Difficulty reducing your sugar intake despite repeated attempts

The harmful effects of sugar on health

Excessive sugar consumption can have serious consequences for your health:

• Weight gain: Excess sugar is transformed into fat, which in turn leads to excess weight. This can be detrimental to your health and well-being, as it contributes to the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and joint problems.
• Cardiovascular risks: Excessive sugar consumption can increase the risk of heart disease. Added sugar, particularly that found in sweetened drinks and processed foods, contributes to chronic inflammation, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
• Metabolic imbalance: Eating too much sugar causes blood sugar levels to spike, forcing the body to produce more insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Impact on mental well-being

Although sugar gives you an almost instant feeling of pleasure, its effects can have a negative effect on your mood. After a sugar spike, you may experience a drop in energy, mood swings and even anxiety due to the sudden variations in blood sugar levels. These fluctuations can affect your productivity and quality of life, and lead to a vicious circle of cravings and stress.

How can you reduce your sugar dependency naturally?

Fortunately, it is possible to reduce your dependence on sugar thanks to natural solutions:

1. Use supplements to help stabilise blood sugar levels

• Chromium: Helps regulate blood sugar levels.

• Berberine: Helps to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels, thus helping to better control sugar cravings.
• Cider vinegar: Helps lower blood sugar levels after meals and stabilise carbohydrate metabolism.

→ Come and meet our naturopaths at La Moisson to find out which supplements are best suited to your needs!

2. Eat a diet rich in fibre, complex carbohydrates and proteins

Fibre helps slow down the absorption of sugar into the blood, stabilising your energy levels throughout the day. Choose fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains.

Don't forget protein! Protein also plays a key role in slowing digestion and preventing blood sugar spikes after meals. They promote a more stable release of energy and help reduce sweet cravings. Add protein sources such as pulses, lean meat or a vegetable or whey protein supplement to your meals.

→ Our food advisors at La Moisson can guide you!

3. Regular physical activity

Tips for reducing sugar on a daily basis

• Drink water regularly: Are you really hungry, or just thirsty?

• Plan your meals and snacks: Having healthy options on hand will help you avoid sugary temptations or often less-than-nutritious snacks on the go.

• Get enough sleep: A good night's sleep regulates the hormones that influence appetite.

Consult our experts for personalised support

Sugar addiction can be overcome with support and adjustments to your lifestyle. Come and meet our naturopaths and food advisors at La Moisson for personalised advice and solutions tailored to your needs.

Reducing sugar addiction is a process that requires patience and perseverance, but with the right strategies and guidance from qualified professionals, you can improve your well-being. Don't hesitate to visit La Moisson or lamoisson.com to discover our natural solutions and receive advice tailored to your situation.

This article is provided for information purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any questions about your health, please consult a healthcare professional.