Without further ado, here’s another edition of the series.
Why do I get a sweet tooth when I quit drinking?
Research has showntemporary abstinence from alcohol can reset your health meterand may evensupport long-term well-being1.
Keeping the benefits in mind might not make the journey any easier, though.
Here’s the scientific rationale for your newly adopted sweet tooth.
Why does giving up alcohol lead to sugar cravings?
Physiologically speaking, when we consume alcohol, the body converts it to sugar.
Due to evolution, this feeling of deprivation will cause the body to kick into survival mode.
Additionally, sugar can mimic the effects that alcohol has on the brain.
In other words, sugar may be replacing that “buzz” you get from alcohol.
How to overcome sugar cravings, without turning back to alcohol.
Rather than giving in to the craving right when it strikes, wait it out.
Drink water or tea to fill your stomach, and see if the desire for sugar lessens.
Some people notice they overcome their cravings by not immediately “feeding” them.
If the craving does persist, know that it’s OK to give in.
Find healthy dessert alternatives and recipes.
Sip on a nonalcoholic, healthy beverage.
These days, there are plenty ofmocktail recipesandnonalcoholic drinksmeant to replicate your favorite boozy beverages.
Drinking sparkling water with citrus or berries might also hit the spot.
Try drinking them out of your favorite cocktail glass for a more similar experience.
Distract yourself with positive activities.
Welcoming positive distractions, to keep you from fixating on alcohol or sweets, can be helpful.
She writes for Harvard Health and Psychology Today.
