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Do you struggle with controlling your sweet tooth? There’s a reason it can be hard to resist indulging in sweets – foods that are high in sugar would quickly meet the caloric needs of our early human ancestors, which led to many of us having a genetic predisposition to craving sugary items. Unfortunately, our genetics haven’t caught up with our modern lifestyle filled with high-sugar foods and drinks, and most Americans greatly exceed the daily recommended amount of sugar. To reduce your risk of tooth decay and improve your overall health, here are six easy tips for overcoming your sugar cravings.
1. Learn How Much Sugar You’re Eating
First things first, you need to understand your sugar intake habits. Spend the next week or so keeping a food journal, writing down everything you eat and drink. This will give you a better idea of just how much sugar you’re consuming.
2. Gradually Decrease Your Sugar Intake
Because sugar has addictive properties, quitting cold turkey can cause withdrawal symptoms like headaches or irritability. Instead, take small steps over a week or two to gradually consume less sugar.
3. Learn to Tell Yourself No
Eating or drinking something sweet feels good in the moment, but is it worth the risk of getting more cavities later on? Thinking about the long-term consequences of eating too much sugar may make it easier to kick the habit.
4. Find Sugar-Free Substitutes
These days, many sugarless products and artificial sweeteners taste almost exactly like the real thing. Moderation is still key, but these sugar-free alternatives are certainly healthier for your smile.
5. Chew Sugar-Free Gum
If you’re craving something sweet, popping a piece of sugarless chewing gum into your mouth is a great solution. Not only does it satisfy your sweet tooth, but it keeps your teeth clean by promoting saliva production. Make sure the gum you’re chewing has the ADA Seal of Approval on the label. That means the American Dental Association has deemed it effective at improving oral health.
6. Indulge in Sugar Occasionally
If you avoid sugar altogether, there’s the risk that you’ll relapse and binge on sweets later. Again, it has addictive properties for many people. To prevent this, allow yourself to eat something sweet every now and then. A piece of cake at a birthday party or a scoop of ice cream on a date isn’t going to instantly ruin your teeth. Sugar is fine in moderation – just remember to brush your teeth afterward if you can!
For many people, it’s not easy to cut back on sugar, especially not at first. But if you’re able to do it gradually, your teeth will thank you for it. Plus, you’ll end up saving money that would have otherwise spent getting cavities filled!
About the Practice
At Brush Dental, Dr. John Kuan and Dr. Christopher Lam take a preventive approach to dentistry, taking the time to educate their patients in the Royse City, TX area on how to keep their smiles clean and healthy between appointments. For more advice on conquering your sugar cravings, you can visit their website or call (469) 723-4000.
