It’s practically everywhere these days. In your soda and sports drinks. In your bread. In your peanut butter. Sugar is in most food and drink products, and the average American consumes about 77 grams per day, about three times the recommended amount!
In addition to increasing the risk of diabetes, obesity, and other health problems, sugar also encourages cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth, drastically raising the risk of damaging tooth decay. But it tastes so good! How can you beat your sugar cravings? Here are some tips to help you.
Keep Track of How Much Sugar You Consume
For a week or two, record the foods you eat in a journal, so you can see for yourself the amount you’re consuming. Many people don’t realize just how much sugar they have in a single day, but if you look at the nutritional facts for your foods and drinks, you may be surprised and realize that your diet may need to change to benefit your smile as well as your overall health. Becoming aware of the sugar content of foods can help you make better choices.
Reduce Your Sugar Intake Gradually
Studies have shown that some people can have a similar neurological response with sugar as with addictive chemicals. This means that stopping cold turkey with sugar could trigger mild “withdrawal” symptoms, similar to those experienced with cutting out caffeine. While non-life-threatening, this experience can be very unpleasant. As a result, you may be more successful in reducing your sugar intake over time.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Just as you could use sugar alternatives in baking or in your coffee, there are gums out there that do not include sugar or other potentially damaging ingredients. In fact, chewing sugar-free gum can actually help your smile because it causes your mouth to salivate more, rinsing away plaque, bits of food, and bacteria. In other words, having sugar-free gum can help you overcome a craving and benefit your mouth stay clean!
Remember Why You’re Foregoing Sugar
When you’re struggling with a craving, try to keep your end goal in mind. Sugar is an instant gratification with long-lasting negative impacts. Learn to tell yourself no and remind yourself that lowering your sugar intake is really worth the short-term effort for long-term rewards of better oral health and well-being.
Indulge Occasionally
Anyone who says that you need to cut out sugar entirely is not giving you sound advice. The real problem is having too much sugar, which means that a treat now and then is perfectly fine as long as you continue to brush and floss every day and see your dentist regularly.
Although it can be tough to get beyond a sugar craving, these tips can make it easier to pass on sweet treat. Your smile and your future self will thank you later!
About the Practice
At Beach Dental, our team always encourages patients and families to practice healthy habits. In addition to providing advice on the proper technique for brushing and flossing, we can offer tips for managing sugar cravings as well as other challenges that could endanger your oral health. Dr. Jason Parli and Dr. Alexis Gersten are happy to meet with patients of all ages and help you achieve your best smile. To schedule an appointment at Beach Dental, you may call 631-325-0731 or contact us online here.