Sugar Craving Treatments: Why Do People With Alcohol Use Disorders Crave Sugar?
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic condition affecting millions of individuals worldwide. One of the lesser-discussed yet significant consequences of AUD is the tendency to crave sugar. This might seem surprising, but the link between alcohol and sugar cravings is deeply rooted in biochemistry, diet, and emotional well-being. In this blog post, we will explore why people with alcohol use disorders crave sugar, delve into the mechanisms driving this connection, and provide practical Sugar Craving Treatments that are both holistic and natural.
The Biochemical Link Between Alcohol and Sugar
The relationship between alcohol and sugar cravings starts with how the body processes alcohol. Alcohol is essentially a form of sugar that is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. When individuals with AUD consume alcohol, their bodies experience spikes in blood sugar levels, followed by rapid drops, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). The body, in response, signals for more sugar to restore balance. This creates a cycle where the individual craves more sugar, both in the form of alcohol and sugary foods.
Alcohol also impacts neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, both of which are associated with pleasure and reward. Sugar stimulates similar pathways in the brain, leading to a sense of euphoria that temporarily alleviates withdrawal symptoms, anxiety, or feelings of depression commonly experienced in AUD. This reward-based system, driven by dopamine, explains why people with alcohol use disorders may turn to sugary foods or drinks when they cut back or stop drinking alcohol.
Emotional and Behavioral Factors Behind Sugar Cravings
ALCOHOL RAISES BLOOD SUGAR
SUGAR RAISES BLOOD SUGAR
Beyond the biochemical aspect, there are emotional and behavioral reasons for sugar cravings in people with AUD. Alcohol is often used as a coping mechanism to deal with stress, trauma, or emotional pain. When someone decides to quit drinking, they may still seek comfort through other means. Sugar provides a quick and easy way to mimic the soothing effects of alcohol, albeit briefly. However, this replacement behavior can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and a host of other metabolic issues, compounding the health risks.
As many people in recovery programs know, alcoholics frequently turn to sugary treats as a substitute for alcohol. This is because sugar and alcohol share similar addictive properties. Cravings for sweets can serve as a temporary emotional relief or a way to cope with the changes the body undergoes during recovery.
Gut Health and Sugar Craving Treatments
BOTH ALCOHOL AND CANDIDA ARE FERMENTED
Gut health also plays a critical role in sugar cravings among individuals with AUD. Alcohol consumption damages the intestinal lining, leading to poor nutrient absorption and disruptions in gut microbiota—the beneficial bacteria in the digestive system. When the gut is imbalanced, it can lead to yeast overgrowth (such as Candida), which thrives on sugar. People with Candida overgrowth may experience an insatiable craving for sugar, further perpetuating the cycle of poor health.
ALCOHOL STIMULATES CANDIDA OVERGROWTH
Restoring gut health is a vital step in Sugar Craving Treatments. Holistic approaches, such as incorporating probiotics, digestive enzymes, and a diet rich in fiber, can help to heal the gut and reduce cravings. Products like ProSynbiotic, which supports gut flora balance, and Enzycore, a comprehensive digestive enzyme supplement, are great options for supporting gut health and reducing sugar cravings. Consider these functional medicine solutions for improving gut health and managing cravings effectively.
How to Combat Sugar Cravings in People With AUD
Managing sugar cravings during recovery from alcohol use disorder requires a multifaceted approach. Below are some effective Sugar Craving Treatments that incorporate natural, functional medicine, and complementary solutions:
1. Balanced Nutrition
Ensuring a balanced intake of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates helps stabilize blood sugar levels, reducing the likelihood of sugar cravings. Protein-rich foods, especially from natural and organic sources, slow down glucose absorption and help maintain steady energy levels.
2. Supplements for Sugar Craving Treatments
Certain supplements have been shown to be effective in curbing sugar cravings. For instance, Gymnema is an herb that helps manage sugar cravings by reducing the taste of sweetness, while Diaplex supports healthy glucose metabolism and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, Chromium Complex aids in glucose transport and insulin function, making it beneficial for managing blood sugar and improving energy metabolism. These supplements are available at Standard Process.
3. Hydration
Dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger or cravings. Drinking plenty of good quality spring water helps with hydration. Avoid herbal teas or electrolyte-rich drinks because they are crap. These drinks and herbal teas will not help to curb sugar cravings or support overall detoxification, which is crucial for individuals recovering from AUD. The only exception to this would be if the electrolyte-rich drink or herbal tea was prescribed to you by a licensed healthcare provider.
4. Exercise and Stress Management
Engaging in regular physical activity not only boosts mood but also helps reduce stress, which is often a trigger for sugar cravings. Mindfulness practices, such as yoga or meditation, are effective complementary therapies for managing both cravings and anxiety in recovery.
5. Gut Health Restoration for Sugar Craving Treatments
As mentioned earlier, addressing gut health is paramount. A holistic approach would include incorporating probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive support. Avoiding processed foods and sugars that feed harmful gut bacteria is essential for reducing cravings. Consider products like ProSynbiotic for probiotic support and Gut Flora Complex from MediHerbto promote healthy gut flora and reduce sugar cravings naturally.
Gut Flora Complex can only be obtained through Patient Direct. Once you are in Patient Direct,you will need to click on the green button that says REGISTER. When you are registering yourself, you will need a code known as the Health Care Professional’s Patient Direct Code. You will need to contact our office to get that code number. Then you will click on the green button that says VERIFY AND AGREE.
There are 4 main ways you can get in touch with our office to get the patient’s direct code:
Triad of Health Family Healing Center and the office of Dr. Ilya Skolnikoff:
(866) 849-5752 Toll-Free number
(415) 707-5865 Text/Phone
(415) 459-4313 Office Phone
chiro@triadofhealth.netis our email.
Product Suggestions for Sugar Craving Treatments
Triad of Health offers a range of supplements that can aid in reducing sugar cravings, particularly for those recovering from alcohol use disorder. Below are some recommended products:
- Gymnema– Gymnema is an herb known for its ability to reduce the taste of sweetness, helping to manage sugar cravings. It supports healthy glucose levels and has a long history of use in herbal medicine for managing sugar metabolism.
- Diaplex– Diaplex supports healthy glucose metabolism and helps regulate blood sugar levels. It is a great option for managing sugar cravings while supporting insulin and energy production.
- ProSynbiotic– This probiotic supplement supports healthy gut flora, which can become imbalanced in people with alcohol use disorders. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for reducing sugar cravings linked to gut dysbiosis.
- Zypan– Zypan provides digestive support, ensuring optimal nutrient absorption and gut health. Improving digestion is key to reducing sugar cravings and supporting overall metabolic function.
- Catalyn– This whole-food multivitamin provides a broad spectrum of essential nutrients that are often depleted in individuals with AUD. Replenishing these nutrients can help reduce sugar cravings and improve overall energy levels.
Take a look at how Daniel was able to combat his sugar addictions with proper treatment utilizing The Skolnikoff Method:
Conclusion
People with alcohol use disorders often crave sugar due to a combination of biochemical, emotional, and behavioral factors. However, through a combination of balanced nutrition, gut health restoration, stress management, and natural supplements, it’s possible to manage these cravings effectively. By focusing on Sugar Craving Treatments that are holistic, non-invasive, and functional medicine-based, individuals can overcome the challenging transition from alcohol dependency to a healthier, sugar-free lifestyle.
Effective sugar craving treatments often involves a multifaceted approach, combining professional medical care with lifestyle changes and supportive therapies. By understanding potential causes and available treatment options, individuals struggling with sugar cravings can take proactive steps towards recovery and improved overall health. Fortunately, The Skolnikoff Method and Triad Of Health Family Healing Center have a complete solution for most people experiencing sugar cravings. That complete solution begins with our initial in office Inflammation Exam. Feel free to get in touch with us and we can help you to schedule our detailed 1 Hour Inflammation Exam / Wellness Consultation in the office. If you prefer to be seen virtually you can see if there is still space by following the instructions below.
Whether you are located in the San Francisco Bay Area, New York City, or anywhere else in the United States, we have a life-changing Inflammation Control Method Program that can help you get rid of your symptoms quickly. GUARANTEED! Ironically, we are offering up to 3 people a 30-minute complimentary Zoom Inflammation Control Method Breakthrough Sessionthis month ($330 value). You can sign up while there is still space at DrSkolnikoff.com. The meeting is going to be conducted over Zoom.
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