Acne: diet help [Archive] - Insulite PCOS Forums

drsari

09-10-2008, 11:15 AM

Hello Dr. Sari,

I have acne and crave sugar all the time.

I started the PCOS system about 3 weeks ago, but these cravings are just hard to fight off.

Do you have any suggestions?

My downfall is chocolate (yummy :rolleyes:).

Is there something that is good for me that I could have instead?

Trudy

Dear Trudy,
Congratulations on starting the PCOS System! Yes I have some suggestions to help fight the carb cravings. First of all, make sure you are staying hydrated. We commonly misinterpret thirst for hunger, and as simple as it sounds, drinking enough water (or plain or flavored seltzer water) can really help.
Also, don't eat your daily portion of carbs all at once. Instead consume carbs gradually, throughout the day, while also eating protein and/or fat. You will probably feel better when you do this. Some examples of eating protein/fat with carbs are: rice cake with nut butter, crackers with avocado or cream cheese, etc.
If you are craving chocolate and MUST give in, eat the purest form of that food, like a piece of a pure dark chocolate bar as opposed to chocolate cake.
Carb cravings can be like an addiction in some people. Therefore, it takes persistence rather than will power to manage them. Don't beat yourself up if you "slip up" but rather just try to get back on track and avoid that sugar.
To successfully conquer carbohydrate addiction, the key is a gradual, consistent tapering. This will not feel like a shock to your system, and your efforts won't be sabotaged by strong cravings. Before long, you'll hardly crave carbs at all.
Some of the nutrients in the System help with carb cravings too, like the chromium and magnesium.
Hope this helps! Write back if you need more support.
Cheers,
Dr. Sari