Recovery Why Are Sugar Cravings Common in Addiction Recovery?

While it’s natural to experience sugar cravings during recovery, it’s important to find a balance in consuming sugar to avoid potential negative consequences. Sugar can provide a short-term energy boost and temporarily improve mood by replenishing depleted glycogen stores [3]. However, excessive consumption of sugary foods and beverages can contribute do alcoholics crave sugar to issues such as weight gain, blood sugar spikes and crashes, irritability, and fatigue in the long run. Alcohol and sugar addiction often go hand in hand due to their shared impact on the brain’s reward system, specifically the release of dopamine. People susceptible to alcohol addiction are more likely to develop sugar addiction as well.

Remember, each person’s journey is unique, so it’s important to find the strategies that work best for you and seek support from professionals or support groups as needed.
Exercise also stimulates brain chemicals that can leave you feeling happier and more relaxed, which might also reduce cravings for sweets.

Are Sugar Cravings Bad?

High sugar intake can trigger the reward center of your brain to create dopamine and serotonin. I’m early sobriety, these neurotransmitter levels may be below baseline… that means you may be wanting anything and everything to boost your mood! The is the biggest reason why sugar cravings appear in early sobriety, especially the first month. Not only might flaming desserts still contain alcohol, but they also send a mixed message. Whether recovering from alcoholism or drug addiction, this mindset can take us down a dangerous path. Next thing you know, it’s a bit of Grand Marnier in our hot chocolate.

Genetic Predisposition to Sweet Preferences

Instead of turning to sugary treats as a substitute for alcohol, there are healthier alternatives that can nourish the body and support overall well-being. Two key strategies for managing sugar cravings in recovery are nourishing the body with whole foods and practicing balance and mindful eating. Addressing the root causes of sugar cravings in recovering alcoholics through proper nutrition, hydration, and overall health is crucial. By focusing on a well-rounded diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods, individuals can satisfy their cravings while nourishing their bodies. Incorporating a balance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can provide essential nutrients and help stabilize blood sugar levels.

Can Anxiety Medication Really Be Addictive?

This book further notes that cravings become stronger on an empty stomach. However, just because someone experiences cravings does not mean they have AUD. Incentive salience is when the motivation for a reward is driven by a person’s physiological state, learned cues, and reward associations. Alcohol increases activity in brain areas related to reward processing, which produces rewarding or pleasurable effects. If you have a history of anorexia or bulimia, food journaling might be a trigger.