Did you know that sugar and processed foods are as addictive as heroin and cocaine? It’s no wonder so many people are addicted to sugar.

“Sweet is the first taste humans prefer from birth,” says Christine Gerbstadt, MD, RD, a dietitian and American Dietetic Association (ADA) spokeswoman. She has also said that the sweet taste releases endorphins that help us calm down and relax, giving us a natural high.

Experts worry that since sugar makes up a third of our calorie intake, sugar overload is contributing to diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

Researchers at Yale University have revealed that after eating bad carbohydrates such as sugars and carbs, cause dramatic drops in blood sugar levels. The drop can leads to loss of self-control and cravings when it comes to high-calorie foods.

When trying to stop sugar cravings, it is important to never go hungry. Skipping a meal or two lowers the body’s blood sugar causing you to overeat to make up for the lost calories. Eating three balanced meals a day with two snacks keep your blood sugar stable reducing cravings.

Most people are guilty of having a sweet tooth especially in the evening hours after dinner. There are healthier ways to satisfy these cravings, such as fruits, smoothies, or even dark chocolates can be healthy than donuts and candies.

Here are a few examples of healthier sweet tooth remedies:

• Yogurt Parfait ( about 300 calories)
• Cereal and Milk (about 110 calories)
• Fresh Fruit (about 54 calories)
• Dark Chocolate ( about 155 calories)
• Smoothie (about 90 calories)
• Graham Crackers ( about 320 calories)

Remember to keep a positive mindset when trying to crush these cravings!

Healthy Sweet Recipe:

The following is a recipe suggested by healthy eater, Desiree Mejia. When asked why she suggested this sweet treat she said:

“I love blueberries, I get the sweetness of a candy or cookie but I know this is healthy!”

I also asked if she has any advice for people trying to eat healthy:

“Just push through. It’s going to be tough but the more you do it the easier it becomes.”

The Ultimate Healthy Blueberry Crumble {Video Included!}