How to stop your sugar cravings

1. Eat small, regular meals

You have probably heard this one a few times before, but it's worth repeating! To eliminate sugar cravings you need to eat small, regular meals, with no more than three to four hours in between each meal. If you fast for longer than that, your blood glucose is liable to drop and you'll be tempted to reach for a sugary treat. Be sure to plan in advance for your day ahead; when you leave the house take a bag or cooler bag with healthy, low-sugar treats that you can snack on during the day. Planning really is integral to managing your sugar cravings.

2. Food Choices

Stand in front of your fridge and grocery cupboard and take a good look at the food inside. Throw out any food item that is processed, refined or loaded with added sugar. Replace your white rice, white bread, biscuits, sugar-coated muesli, cake, instant macaroni, ice cream, crisps and fizzy drinks with healthier options. Choose foods with a low Glycemic Load - they release energy slowly and steadily throughout the day, maintaining your blood sugar levels, preventing cravings, and leaving you satisfied for longer.

3. Water

Each of us consists of over 70% water, and it's needed for every single function in your body. In order for your body to function optimally, you should aim to drink at least two litres of water each day. If you are active, you may need to drink even more. In many cases, people reach for unhealthy snacks because they think they are hungry when they are actually just thirsty. Drinking a glass of water before each meal will make you feel fuller, reduce cravings and prevent bad dietary decisions. Remember that if you are feeling thirsty, that means you are already dehydrated.

4. Get Moving

You know that feeling you get after eating sugary snacks? Sugar releases a neurotransmitter named dopamine into your brain, which gives that characteristic 'high' associated with sugar. Well, exercise actually has a very similar effect, and can be used as a substitute to help wean yourself off your sugar addiction. Even something as simple as a long walk or a gentle cycle ride can help ward off those sugar cravings.