We are privileged to have food in abundance from everywhere in the world. Our choices are innumerable, especially when it comes to sweet foods. Donuts, candy, ice cream, cake, cookies, sweetened yogurt, soda pop, energy drinks – the list goes on. Then if you add the carbs – chips, breads, pastas, cereals, etc. it’s no wonder that we are challenged by blood sugar issues that are out of control.
Because blood sugar levels have a major impact on our health – cardiovascular disease, immune challenges (especially the growing number of auto-immune diseases), atherosclerosis, obesity, inflammation, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), chronic hyperglycemia (diabetes), high triglycerides, menstrual issues, and infertility to name a few – we have to take this health predicament seriously.
Sugar cravings make getting this under control difficult. Fatigue makes it even more difficult.
To remedy blood sugar instability issues, we first have to look at what is behind the problem, what is the root. For many, that root is fatigue. People reach for sweet stuff to give them an energy boost. Fix the fatigue and half the battle is won. How do you fix the fatigue? That is an article in of itself, however, here are a few things to consider:
Stop being so busy. We fill our lives with so much that we hardly have the time to just relax and rejuvenate. That includes getting to bed at a decent hour so that we can restore ourselves and heal. Many are tired because of dealing with health issues such as pain. That too must be resolved. Acupuncture is a form of healing that can resolve most causes of pain, improve energy levels, restore normal sleep patterns, and help you to be able to cope with the stress that is part of being overly busy.
Before you put something in your mouth, ask yourself a question: “Will this harm me or help me”. If it is harmful to your health, or only a temporary fix for your fatigue, choose to throw it away instead. Also ask, “Am I hydrated?” Many people mistake the desire for water as a desire for sugar. Simply drinking a glass of water will often resolve the sugar craving. Choose foods with lower sugar levels. There are many snack foods, especially fruits, that are simple, will satisfy, and be healthier choices. Avoid artificial sweeteners – they cause more blood sugar instability!
Choose to correct the mechanisms contributing to your want for sugary foods. Acupuncture, herbs, and whole food supplements are great ways to do that. Meet with a practitioner skilled at assessing your specific factors contributing to blood sugar issues that will guide you on an eating style that helps resolve or minimize your health issues, rather than just manage them.
©2023 Holly A. Carling, O.M.D., L. Ac., Ph.D.
