Sugar is highly addictive and affects our brain in the same way drugs do. This is why when you’re trying to lose weight or improve your blood sugar levels, kicking this craving can be extraordinarily difficult. Beyond fighting the internal craving, we’re also bombarded by inexpensive, sugary goods, that make a sugar-free or low sugar diet difficult to maintain.
Thankfully, there is a way to curb the craving, and it is simpler than avoiding eye contact with the Twinkies at the grocery store. Tea is an excellent alternative for a sweet treat, and here’s why.
Why we have sugar cravings
Sugar is one of the three components needed to maintain regulatory functions in our bodies. Before industry and technology revolutionized the way we eat, humans needed to consume as many calories as possible for survival. The best way to do this was by consuming sugar, salt, and carbs; these three components ensured early humans to stay satiated until the next meal.
While we are fortunate to have salty, sugary, and carb-rich foods readily at any grocery store, too much can be detrimental to our health, especially when they are full of additives and synthetic chemicals. If you’re on a dietary plan where sugar is cut down or cut out completely, it can be hard to ignore the basic, natural urge to consume more sugar. Thankfully, there are ways around it.
Can tea stop sugar cravings?
The short answer is “yes.” Tea can stop sugar cravings, but there are a few other factors to consider.
First, some teas are full of natural and added sugar. If you are consuming tea, especially iced or pre-prepared, double-check the ingredient list on the back just to be sure there is no added sugar. Second, the tea itself is not exactly what curbs the sugar craving. The herbs in the tea are doing most of the work–certain herbs can deter us from craving sugar and provide a healthier, tasty alternative.
Herbs that stop sugar cravings
Since the herbs within tea are the primary source for deterring sugar cravings, it’s important to understand which ones are the most beneficial. Below are some of the best herbs for defeating sugar cravings.
Mint
Mint is a potent and refreshing herb often used to “cleanse the pallet” between meals, or after the final course. We also associate mint with the end of a meal since we often associate it with brushing our teeth. Many restaurants also serve mint candies at the end of a meal to help freshen the breath. This flavor can curb cravings by tricking your mind into thinking mealtime is over.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a warm and naturally sweet spice often found in baked goods and teas. Because it is often included in dishes alongside sugar, sometimes cinnamon alone can satiate the need for something sweet. This spice also has myriad health benefits, stabilizing blood glucose levels, providing antioxidants, and reducing inflammation.
Cloves
Cinnamon is not the only herb that stabilizes blood glucose levels. Cloves are a warm and sweet holiday spice often used in winter dishes. Similar to cinnamon, cloves can lower blood sugar levels while containing a natural sweetness that keeps your sweet tooth in check. Furthermore, cloves are naturally high in beneficial vitamins and minerals like antioxidants and Vitamin C and K.
Natural remedies for sugar cravings
If you’re struggling with controlling your sugar cravings, take advantage of these herbs by including them in your tea.
Mint tea
Mint tea is a refreshing and relaxing beverage that is perfect in the morning after breakfast, cleansing your pallet and preparing you for the day. In addition to curbing sugar cravings, mint tea can also soothe an upset stomach.
Chai tea
Chai tea has several aromatic herbs and spices and is one of the more naturally sweet teas to drink. Consider pairing chai tea with a bit of cinnamon or cloves to enhance the natural herbal flavor, or delight in the tea as is. Chai tea is also great for digestive and other gastrointestinal problems.
Chamomile tea
For women especially, chamomile tea reduces sugar cravings that are especially strong during a menstrual period. Chamomile also aids in sleep and hormone balancing, so drinking chamomile tea can stabilize hormones and eliminate cravings.
While tea isn’t the main source of curbing the natural craving for sugar, it is a great way to implement sugar-deterring herbs into your diet. Experiment with different teas that include cinnamon, mint, or cloves to find a drink that not only tastes good but also cuts excessive sugars from your diet, keeping you healthier in the longterm.
Disclaimer: BlissMark provides information regarding health, wellness, and beauty. The information within this article is not intended to be medical advice. Before starting any diet or exercise routine, consult your physician. If you don’t have a primary care physician, the United States Health & Human Services department has a free online tool that can help you locate a clinic in your area. We are not medical professionals, have not verified or vetted any programs, and in no way intend our content to be anything more than informative and inspiring.
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