2006-03-28

Question:I've been able to give up meat, dairy, even smoking cigarettes, but sugar is the one that gets away. What can I do to curb my cravings? Why do some people have a sweet tooth?

Answer: I don't know why some people have a sweet tooth. Part of the problem may be that sweets are often given to us as treats when we're young, developing our taste for sugar. In some people, sugar has an effect on mood, which is another factor that may underlie cravings. Eating sweets can increase levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which can help you relax, suggesting that some cravings are stress-related. Studies at the University of California-San Francisco reported last year that chronic stress may explain why some people crave comfort foods.

• Try to satisfy your cravings with fruits that fall low on the glycemic index (berries, cherries, apples, pears), which are more healthful than other sources of sugar and give the added benefit of fiber.

http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/arizonaliving/articles/0328qaweil0328.html