Why is it that when we feel sad or discouraged, we often rush to grab something sweet? It seems that sweets will help us cope with mental discomfort. Scientists explained why this happens and suggested ways to trick the body by replacing harmful sweets with healthy foods. Why does this happen and how to cope with cravings for sweets?

Biochemical background

In our desires to enjoy sweet goodies, there is also a biochemical explanation. Sweets promote the production of serotonin, the pleasure hormone. When we consume sweets, our body quickly raises blood glucose levels and activates serotonin production. But when glucose levels drop again and serotonin's action ends, we have an even greater desire for sweets, and so a vicious circle is formed.

Sweetness as a relief

The vast majority of people resort to sweets in times of mental discomfort or stress. This is because sweets seem to be a relief and a way for us to cope with negative emotions. They seem to be able to calm our nerves and lift our mood.

Sugar addiction

Recent studies on rats have shown that sugar can cause a real addiction similar to drug addiction. Rats accustomed to consuming sugar experience a real "withdrawal" when it is denied.

How to combat cravings for sweets

To cope with the craving for sweets, you need to act in several directions at once.

Psychological approach: It is important to realize what emotions and events can lead to the desire to eat sweets. Try to understand your emotions and find ways to cope with them other than eating sweets.

Nutrition: Revise your diet so that it includes all the vitamins and minerals you need, including those that help produce serotonin. This will allow you to maintain a good mood without overeating sweets.

Tryptophan: This amino acid is a precursor to serotonin and can help raise its levels in the body. You need to consume foods rich in tryptophan such as peas, beans, soybeans, buckwheat, oatmeal, meat, cheese, and eggs.

Magnesium: This mineral helps manage stress and improves our physical and emotional well-being. To get enough magnesium, look to foods like nuts, chocolate, watermelon, meat, and dairy products.

Healthy Substitutions: Look for healthy alternatives to sweets. For example, fruits, nuts, yogurt with honey and berries can satisfy your need for sweet, but in a healthier form.

Conclusion

Craving for sweets often has both psychological and physiological reasons. You can deal with it by understanding your emotions, maintaining a healthy diet and enriching your body with tryptophan and magnesium. Finding healthy alternatives to sweets can help you satisfy your cravings without harming your health.