Sugar and Autism: Why are my kids addicted to sugar?

23 July 2023

Last Updated

Author: Warren Gouin

Sugar Cravings And Autism Spectrum Disorder Often Go Together.

Have you ever wondered where cravings come from? It all begins when our body’s cells send signals to the brain, requesting nourishment. Interestingly, it's not just our human cells at play; the diverse microbes residing within us have a significant role too.

These tiny life forms heavily influence our cravings, especially when they favor sugary delights. With microbial populations outnumbering human cells by a whopping ten to one, it's no surprise that their sweet tooth can escalate our cravings. While you'll discover practical strategies to curb these cravings further along, let’s first explore some essential background.

Take a moment to consider how much sugar your child is consuming. It's essential to consider how it may affect their body, gut, and cognitive health. As parents, we all strive for the best for our children, yet sugar habits and gut health issues in kids with Autism could be more intertwined than we realise.

Studies indicate that children with Autism often present with less diverse gut microbiomes compared to their neurotypical peers. Given that a robust gut is vital for supporting healing in Autism, what steps can we take to enhance gut health? It starts with introducing the right foods into their diet.

Foods that require a rich community of microbes to digest—such as complex fibres and prebiotics—are crucial. In contrast, easily fermented foods, like sugary snacks, can lead to a compromised gut environment. The challenge lies in persuading our children to opt for these healthier choices when their cravings lean towards sugar and simple carbohydrates, like pasta and bread.

Does Sugar Cause Autism?

It's important to note that autism is a collection of symptoms with multiple causes. Autism is not a disease with a single cause and treatment. Each person's experience with autism is unique, shaped by a variety of factors. However, research suggests that certain factors, such as inflammation and impaired mitochondrial function, can contribute to the development of autism.

So, does sugar cause autism? The answer is no. Sugar itself is not the direct cause of autism. However, it's worth noting that excessive sugar intake can lead to inflammation and hinder mitochondrial function and other health issues. These effects can have a negative impact on overall health and well-being, including for individuals with autism.

Reducing sugar intake can help alleviate inflammation and support mitochondrial function, allowing the body to heal and improve its functioning. By making conscious choices to limit sugar consumption, we can create a healthier environment for individuals with autism to thrive.

Altering Gut Microbes Can Stop Sugar Cravings.

Improving the balance in the gut can make it easier to resist sugar. Our gut microbes play a key role in driving our cravings for certain foods.

As parents, it's important to provide food that promotes a diverse community of microbes in the gut. This means avoiding simple sugars and opting for foods that require a community of microbes to digest. By promoting diversity in the gut, we can support the health of our gut microbes and ultimately our own health.

When gut balance is disrupted, our health declines. One of the main culprits for a poor gut environment in the Western world is sugar and other low-quality carbohydrates. Unwanted microbes, such as yeasts, thrive on sugar and disrupt the natural balance in the gut.

To enhance our gut ecosystem, we must minimise our intake of poor-quality junk foods, especially those high in sugar. By starving these sugar-loving microbes, we can restore balance and promote diversity in the gut.

While altering children's diets to improve their well-being, especially for those on the Autism Spectrum, may not have guaranteed results, it's definitely worth a try. Reducing processed foods and sugars while increasing prebiotics and fibres can not only make children feel better but also potentially reduce their sugar cravings. This can make it easier for them to make long-term lifestyle changes and improve their overall health.

Sugar also has a negative impact on brain function and development. It can cause systemic inflammation and disrupt the production of neurotransmitters, leading to cognitive issues. By reducing sugar intake, we can support better brain function and development.

The Effect of Sugar on PANDAS and its Connection to Autism.

To understand the impact of sugar on our health, we often overlook the connection it has with conditions like PANDAS and Autism. But the truth is, sugars can wreak havoc on our bodies, especially for children on the Autism Spectrum.

PANDAS is a condition that showcases the importance of removing sugars and creating a healthy gut environment. PANDAS, which stands for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections, is characterised by symptoms similar to those found in Autism. These symptoms include difficulties with socialising, sensory processing, fine motor skills, and concentration.

But what does sugar have to do with PANDAS? Well, certain strains of bacteria, like Streptococcus, rely heavily on sugar. An overgrowth of these sugar-loving bacteria can result in PANDAS. And here's the kicker – the symptoms of PANDAS, often dismissed as permanent disorders or structural brain issues, could actually be related to this bacterial overgrowth.

Now, I know what you're thinking – how can we tackle this problem? The answer lies in maintaining good oral, sinus, and gut health, along with proper treatment. Antibiotics can provide temporary relief, but the key is to create a balanced gut environment that discourages the growth of unwanted microbes.

We need to be vigilant and aware of hidden sugars in our foods. It's time to crowd out those sugar-loving microbes and create a complex and balanced gut environment that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria.

By removing sugar from our diets, we not only improve our overall health but also reduce the chances of a Streptococcus imbalance. It may not be an easy journey, but the rewards are worth it. So let's take a step towards a healthier future, free from the grip of sugar cravings.

Remember, our stories are all we know, and it's time to create a new narrative – one that prioritises our health and well-being. Together, we can make a difference for those affected by PANDAS and Autism. Let's embrace this challenge and pave the way for a brighter future.

What Causes Sugar Cravings?

There are two primary sources that fuel our desire for sugar:

Cravings from human cells.
Microbial cravings.

First, we have cravings from our very own human cells, which occur when our bodies are low on blood glucose and hunger hormones start calling for sugar. Having a diet high in sugar can contribute to sugar fluctuations and sugar cravings. This type of diet affects our bodies signals that alter sugar cravings, such GLP-1 as described later.

Over the past decade, scientists have uncovered fascinating insights into why we crave sugar. Our brains have evolved to recognise sugar as a rapid energy source, triggering complex neurochemical responses that influence our eating behaviours and cravings. The consumption of sugar activates our brain's reward system, releasing dopamine and serotonin - neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and satisfaction. Research shows that Candida albicans overgrowth can intensify sugar cravings as these microorganisms thrive on sugar consumption. A fundamental factor in sugar cravings is that many processed foods are engineered specifically to trigger these reward responses.

Cravings from Sugar Loving Bacteria and Yeasts.

When we have poor gut health full of sugar loving microbes, these organisms send signals to convince our brain, and it's reward circuits to ask for more sugar. Having a less diverse community of microbes in our gut that needs to work together to consume and process quality fibres, means that sugar-loving organisms have less competition.

These sugar-loving microbes are dominating many of our guts, contributing to reward signals for eating more sugar.

Blood Sugar Roller Coaster

When we consume high-glycemic foods or simple sugars, our blood glucose levels spike rapidly, triggering a surge of insulin to help cells absorb the excess sugar.

This insulin response often overcompensates, causing our blood sugar to drop below baseline levels, which prompts our bodies to signal hunger and cravings for quick energy sources. Modern diets containing processed carbohydrates contribute significantly to these dangerous fluctuations.

We've entered what's known as the blood sugar roller coaster - a cycle where each peak and crash drives us to seek more sugar, perpetuating a pattern that can lead to insulin resistance and persistent cravings. Mental and physical stress can intensify these blood sugar fluctuations by releasing hormones that raise glucose levels even further.

Stress and Emotional Eating

When we experience stress, our bodies release cortisol, a hormone that not only increases our appetite but specifically drives cravings for sugary, high-calorie foods.

Scientists have found that consuming sugar provides quick glucose sources when energy levels drop.

We're more likely to reach for sugar-laden comfort foods during stressful times because sugar triggers the release of serotonin and dopamine, creating a temporary feeling of pleasure and relief.

This biological response explains why we often turn to sweets as an emotional coping mechanism, though this can lead to a problematic cycle where stress continues to drive sugar consumption and potential weight gain.

Research shows that sugar creates a reward pathway response in the brain similar to addictive drugs.

Cortisol's Impact on Cravings.

Stress hormones, particularly cortisol, play a notable role in driving our sugar cravings. When we experience stress, our adrenal glands release cortisol, triggering a cascade of metabolic responses that affect hunger regulation and energy metabolism.

These cortisol fluctuations can greatly impact our body's natural appetite signals, leading to increased cravings for high-fat, sweet, or salty foods. The decreased muscle mass resulting from elevated cortisol further complicates weight management by slowing metabolism. Emotional eating often emerges as a coping mechanism for chronic stress and cortisol spikes.

Understanding cortisol's effects on our body helps explain why we often reach for sugary foods during stressful periods:

Cortisol binds to brain receptors that control hunger, directly stimulating our appetite
It promotes insulin release from the liver, causing blood sugar fluctuations that intensify cravings
Chronic stress disrupts our natural cortisol curve, leading to persistent energy deficits

We can manage these cortisol-induced cravings through strategic dietary choices and lifestyle modifications.

A balanced diet rich in colourful vegetables, lean proteins, and heart-healthy fats helps stabilise blood sugar levels and regulate cortisol production.

Additionally, incorporating stress-reduction techniques and maintaining consistent meal timing can help normalise our cortisol patterns and reduce sugar cravings over time.

Sugar as Comfort Food

Beyond cortisol's biological effects, our relationship with sugar often stems from deeply rooted emotional connections. When we experience stress, sadness, or anxiety, our brains seek comfort mechanisms that can quickly elevate our mood through neurotransmitter responses, particularly dopamine and serotonin release. These cravings are naturally programmed responses that helped our ancestors survive by seeking energy-rich foods.

Understanding these emotional triggers helps us recognise why we turn to sugar during challenging times. Our brains have learned to associate sugary foods with temporary relief from negative emotions, creating a complex reward system that reinforces this behaviour.

We've observed that stress hormones increase ghrelin production, which intensifies our appetite and specifically directs us toward quick-energy, sugar-rich foods.

This pattern becomes particularly evident when we examine the habitual aspects of sugar consumption. Regular intake creates both psychological and physiological dependence, as our brains become accustomed to using sugar as a coping strategy.

We're fundamentally training our bodies to seek sugar whenever we need emotional support, establishing a cycle that can be challenging to break without addressing the underlying psychological factors driving these cravings.

Nutrient Deficiencies Matter

Nutrient deficiencies play a surprising role in driving our sugar cravings. When our bodies lack essential minerals and vitamins, they can trigger intense desires for quick energy sources like sugar. Understanding these nutritional gaps and their impact on nutrient absorption helps us make better dietary choices to combat cravings effectively. Regular consumption of fibre-rich vegetables can significantly reduce sugar cravings while providing essential nutrients.

Three critical minerals that influence sugar cravings include:

Magnesium deficiency disrupts blood sugar regulation and energy production.
Zinc inadequacy affects insulin function and protein synthesis.
Chromium shortages impair glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.

We've found that addressing these deficiencies through dietary sources can greatly reduce sugar cravings. For example, incorporating dark leafy greens and nuts provides magnesium, while whole grains and lean meats offer zinc and chromium.

These nutrients work synergistically to stabilise blood sugar levels and improve insulin function, reducing the body's demand for quick energy fixes.

The relationship between nutritional status and sugar cravings extends beyond individual minerals. A thorough approach to nutrition involves consuming a diverse range of whole, unprocessed foods that provide natural sugars alongside fibre.

This combination supports steady blood sugar levels and reduces cravings through improved nutrient absorption. When we're working with clients experiencing persistent sugar cravings, we often recommend a detailed nutritional assessment to identify specific deficiencies that may be contributing to their challenges.

Sleep and Hormonal Balance

Many sugar cravings stem from the intricate relationship between sleep and hormonal balance. When we don't get adequate sleep, our bodies experience notable disruptions in appetite-regulating hormones, particularly ghrelin and leptin. Sleep deprivation increases ghrelin (the hunger hormone) while decreasing leptin (the satiety hormone), creating a perfect storm for sugar cravings. Research shows that this hormonal imbalance can lead to increased obesity rates in adults who consistently get less than 7 hours of sleep.

We've found that hormonal fluctuations play an essential role in our desire for sweets and simple carbohydrates. During times of hormonal change, especially in the premenstrual phase, decreased serotonin levels can trigger intense cravings for sugary foods. These cravings aren't just about willpower - they're driven by complex biological mechanisms that affect our body's energy regulation. These urges typically last 20-30 minutes before subsiding if left unaddressed.

Our circadian rhythms considerably influence how we process and crave sugar throughout the day. When we disrupt these natural patterns through irregular sleep schedules or insufficient rest, our bodies produce more endocannabinoids, which enhance our appetite for sweet and fatty foods. This disruption also increases cortisol production, leading to insulin resistance and stronger sugar cravings.

To maintain balanced blood sugar levels and reduce cravings, we need to prioritise consistent sleep patterns and hormone balance. Getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night helps regulate our appetite hormones and stabilise blood sugar levels.

Additionally, managing stress through proper rest can help control cortisol levels, which directly impact our sugar cravings and metabolic health.

Environmental Triggers

While sleep patterns greatly affect our sugar cravings, the environment around us plays an equally powerful role in shaping our desires for sweet foods. Our daily surroundings present constant stimuli that trigger our brain's dopamine system, creating powerful urges for sugary foods through both scent triggers and visual cues. The ubiquitous presence of sugary products in our modern environment, combined with sophisticated marketing strategies, creates a complex web of triggers that influence our consumption patterns. Cultural celebrations often centre around sweet foods, making it particularly challenging to maintain healthy eating habits during social events. Artificial sweeteners can intensify sugar cravings and make resistance to environmental triggers even more difficult.

Consider these primary environmental factors that impact sugar cravings:

Sensory stimulation from bakeries, restaurants, and food courts releases dopamine, activating our brain's reward pathways.
Strategic product placement in stores positions sugary items at eye level and checkout areas, maximising visual cues.
Persistent exposure to food advertisements conditions our brains to associate sweet foods with positive emotions.

The normalised presence of sugary foods in our social fabric further reinforces these environmental triggers. When we encounter visual cues through advertisements or scent triggers from nearby food establishments, our brain's reward system activates automatically, often without conscious awareness.

These environmental factors are particularly significant because they're deeply integrated into our daily routines and social practices, making them challenging to avoid. Understanding these triggers enables us to implement more effective strategies for managing our sugar consumption, such as taking alternative routes past tempting locations or maintaining mindful awareness of marketing influences on our choices.

Sugar Replacements

Many people turn to common sugar replacements, such as artificial sweeteners found in diet drinks and foods. At first glance, it may seem like a good idea, but these artificial sweeteners can actually cause more harm than good.

Artificial sweeteners can disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to gut dysbiosis. And when the gut is out of balance, it can lead to even more cravings for sweet foods. It's a vicious cycle that can be hard to break.

There is a better option for a sugar replacement – birch xylitol. Xylitol not only looks and tastes like sugar, but it also doesn't cause a spike in blood sugar levels. That's a win-win situation right there.

The benefits don't stop there. Xylitol has the amazing ability to kill microbes that thrive on sugar. And let's face it, those sugar-loving microbes are often the biggest source of sugar cravings in our bodies. By replacing sugar with xylitol, we can starve those microbes and even eliminate them altogether.

Moderation is key, of course. But by incorporating xylitol into your diet, you may find that your sugar cravings start to diminish. It's a small change that can make a big difference.

So, the next time you're tempted to reach for that sugary treat, think about giving xylitol a try. Your taste buds and your gut will thank you. And who knows, you might just find that your sugar cravings become a thing of the past.

Remember, it's all about finding what works best for you and your body. And in this case, xylitol might just be the sweet solution you've been looking for.

What Foods May To Help Reduce Sugar Cravings?

Food plays a crucial role to improve health. But remember, there's no one-size-fits-all diet for everyone. However, if your child has an obsession with sugar, there are some foods you can focus on to help them.

Quality Fats: The Unsung Heroes

Believe it or not, quality fats can actually reduce sugar cravings and provide your child with the energy they need. Look for stable fats like saturated fats from grass-fed animals and some polyunsaturated fats. Butter from grass-fed animals is a great option. And don't forget about stable vegetable fats like olive oil and coconut oils, including MCT oils. MCT oils are like a superhero energy source for the body.

In addition to adding quality fats into the diet, c15 fatty acid can not only improve health, but it can also assist in glucose metabolism and sugar cravings. Raed more about c15 Fatty Acid here.

Protein.

Protein can play a role in reducing sugar cravings by increasing satiety and stabilising blood sugar levels. When we consume protein-rich foods, hormones are released which signal us to feel full.

Proteins also take longer to digest, which means they provide a longer-lasting feeling of fullness and satisfaction. This can help curb cravings and prevent overeating, including the desire for sugary foods.

The quality of protein is key. Opt for sustainably raised, grass-fed animal sources. Remember, your child doesn't need a lot of meat. Focus on nutrient-dense options with lower toxin levels. Quality over quantity is the name of the game. Eating less meat, but making sure it's of high quality is key for health and the bank balance.

Fibres and Probiotics: The Gut Health Duo

Supporting the microbes that improve our health is crucial, especially for children with autism. A high-fibre diet rich in vegetables should be the foundation of their meals. Make vegetables the star of the show. And while some fruits can be enjoyed in moderation, prioritise berries. As for probiotics, they may not be the first step and might not be cost-effective. But don't worry, we've got more thoughts on probiotics for autism if you're interested.

Remember, this is just a summary of things to consider for your child's sugar obsession. Keep in mind that some children may be sensitive to certain foods, so it's important to tailor their diet accordingly. And please, avoid artificial sweeteners like sucralose. They only worsen sugar cravings and come with negative health effects.

So, let's nourish our little ones with the right foods and help them on their journey to better health. Together, we can make a difference.

Biohacking Sugar Cravings - Glucagon-like Peptide 1 (GLP-1)

Another way gut health improves sugar addiction is GLP-1.

GLP-1, short for glucagon-like peptide 1, is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels in our bodies. It is produced in cells in our intestines and is released after we eat a meal. GLP-1 plays a role in controlling our appetite and can also help reduce obesity.

When GLP-1 is released, it stimulates the pancreas to produce insulin, which is a hormone that helps lower blood sugar levels. Insulin allows our cells to take in the sugar from our bloodstream and use it for energy. GLP-1 also helps to inhibit the release of another hormone called glucagon, which raises blood sugar levels. By reducing glucagon levels, GLP-1 helps to keep blood sugar levels in check.

GLP-1 also has another important effect on our bodies. It slows down the movement of food through our gastrointestinal tract and reduces the secretion of digestive fluids. This action is known as the "ileal brake" mechanism and helps to suppress our appetite and reduce food intake. By slowing down the digestion process, GLP-1 gives our brain more time to register that we are full, leading to a decrease in appetite and ultimately helping to reduce obesity.

In addition to its effects on blood sugar control and appetite suppression, GLP-1 has other beneficial effects. It has been found to improve insulin action in our body, leading to better glucose uptake by our cells. GLP-1 also has neurotropic effects, meaning it can affect our brain and nervous system. Studies have shown that GLP-1 can improve cognitive function and may have potential therapeutic applications in neurological disorders.

So how do we use this knowledge to hack sugar craving?

As you've guessed, it's gut related. GLP-1 is produced in the gut, so this is yet another reason to improve gut health to reduce sugar addiction.

But let's get more specific. What are the simple hacks?

Hack 1 - Probiotics that produce butyrate. Akkermansia is a gut bacterium that we normally have naturally in our gut. For various reasons, many of us are low in important keystone bacteria such as Akkermansia. Among its many benefits, Akkermansia contributes to the production of GLP-1 in the gut. It's worth noting that this microbe is a keystone microbe (helps promote other good microbes) and improves the integrity of the gut wall, reducing gut permeability (leaky gut).

Fortunately we can now take Akkermansia as a probiotic, and it's easy to get. There's now a probiotic that includes akkermansia and other rare strains of probiotics that produce butyrate. This probiotic is called Metabolic Daily.

Here is the link to Metabolic Daily on the iHerb store.

Hack 2 - Butyrate supplements. The main mechanism that stimulates GLP-1 is via Butyrate. A healthy gut full of fibre and balanced microbes produces Butyrate. This is another way a healthy gut improves health.

Butyrate has many benefits, including providing energy for cells in the body, including the gut. Butyrate is the main source of energy for our gut wall and is key for a healthy guy.

There is a shortcut, however - take Butyrate as a supplement.

Here is the link to Butyrate on the iHerb store.

How To Stop Sugar Cravings

Eat more fibre and prebiotics

Balance in our diet starts with understanding the power of fibre and prebiotics to combat sugar cravings. When we consume fibre sources like pressure cooked legumes, and vegetables, we're creating a natural defence against sudden spikes in blood glucose and insulin levels**. These dietary components work systematically to slow sugar absorption into our bloodstream, helping us maintain steadier energy levels throughout the day.

Prebiotic foods also stimulate the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in our gut. These SCFAs play an essential role in regulating our blood sugar levels and controlling appetite, making it easier to resist sugary temptations. Supplementing with sodium butyrate can further support gut barrier function and metabolic health.

The combination of soluble and insoluble fibre doesn't just promote feelings of fullness; it actively supports our gut microbiome's health. The community of microbes that work together for health are promoted, while also competing against those bacteria and yeasts that contribute to sugar cravings.

This systematic approach to incorporating fibre and prebiotics helps reduce inflammation markers while supporting our body's natural ability to regulate sugar cravings through improved gut health and metabolic function.

Supplement with Butyrate to increase GLP-1

Butyrate's powerful influence on GLP-1 production offers a promising approach to managing sugar cravings. When we supplement with butyrate or increase its production through dietary changes, we're tapping into several key metabolic pathways that help regulate appetite and blood sugar levels.

The butyrate mechanisms work through multiple cellular processes to enhance GLP-1 secretion. We've found that butyrate activates important signalling pathways, including AMPK and p38. These cells are responsible for producing GLP-1, which helps reduce our appetite and improve glucose metabolism. Research shows that sodium butyrate supplementation can significantly reduce appetite through gut-brain neural circuits. Studies indicate that microbiota composition shifts are consistently observed in type 2 diabetes patients, particularly showing decreased levels of butyrate-producing bacteria.

We can increase our butyrate levels through several methods. The primary approach involves consuming more complex carbohydrates and fibre, which feed the beneficial bacteria that produce butyrate in our large intestine.

These bacteria, particularly Clostridium butyricum, can convert dietary fibre into butyrate.

For those seeking more direct intervention, butyrate supplementation has shown promising results, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

We can also enhance butyrate production by increasing our intake of prebiotic fibers like inulin. The resulting increase in GLP-1 levels leads to better glycemic control and reduced sugar cravings.

When combined with proper dietary choices, butyrate supplementation provides a scientific approach to managing those persistent sugar cravings that many of us struggle with.

Take the Pendulum Metabolic Daily probiotic to further support GLP-1

While butyrate supplementation offers one pathway to increase GLP-1, taking Pendulum Metabolic Daily probiotic provides another powerful approach. This specialised probiotic contains key strains like Akkermansia muciniphila and Clostridium butyricum that work synergistically to support GLP-1 production through multiple mechanisms. The natural formulation helps promote sustainable weight management without harsh side effects commonly associated with medications.

The probiotic benefits extend beyond simple supplementation by addressing the root causes of sugar cravings through enhanced metabolic function and appetite regulation. When these beneficial bacteria colonise our gut, they produce postbiotics that stimulate GLP-1 production, helping us feel fuller for longer periods while stabilising blood sugar levels. Modern lifestyle factors can significantly disrupt our microbiome balance, making supplementation increasingly important.

Eat Enough Quality Foods Including Quality Stable Fats

Eating enough quality foods throughout the day forms the foundation for managing sugar cravings effectively. We can stabilise our blood sugar levels by consuming balanced meals that include healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil.

When we combine these macronutrients strategically, we create sustained, stable energy that helps prevent the sudden drops in blood sugar that often trigger sugar cravings. The average American consumes far too much added sugar daily, making balanced meals even more crucial.

We should prioritise nutrient-dense whole foods and incorporate fiber-rich options like legumes, and vegetables that slow down sugar absorption in our bloodstream.

Including healthy grass-fed animal fats such as butter and ghee helps regulate hormone production and supports proper nutrient absorption. Other quality stable fats include coconut oil, MCT oils, olive oil and avocado oil.

Getting some quality unprocessed or some minimally processed protein is important to improve health and reduce sugar cravings. These include grass-fed meats and some quality protein extractions.

For peak results, we should combine these dietary strategies with proper hydration, as dehydration can sometimes manifest as sugar cravings.

Take Pentadecanoic Acid (C15 Fatty Acid)

Taking pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) represents a powerful strategy for combating sugar cravings through its effects on cellular metabolism and energy production. This essential fatty acid enhances mitochondrial function, leading to more efficient cellular energy production and reduced dependence on glucose for quick energy. Research indicates a triple cellular benefit compared to traditional omega-3 supplementation.

Through its activation of AMPK and inhibition of mTOR pathways, C15:0 helps optimise glucose handling at the cellular level. The advantages of pentadecanoic acid go well beyond merely supporting energy metabolism; they encompass significant enhancements to overall metabolic health. Recent studies demonstrate that C15:0 is the first essential fatty acid discovered in nearly a century.

Higher levels of C15:0 are linked to improved insulin sensitivity and better blood sugar control, which can decrease sugar cravings. Its broad-spectrum effects on cellular health make it particularly valuable for those seeking to break free from sugar dependence.

Here are the key mechanisms through which C15:0 helps manage sugar cravings:

Strengthens cell membranes and improves mitochondrial function for sustained energy release.
Activates AMPK pathways to improve glucose uptake and utilisation within cells.
Supports balanced immunity and reduces inflammation markers that can trigger cravings.
Enhances metabolic health by improving insulin sensitivity and regulating cholesterol.

While C15:0 occurs naturally in whole-fat dairy and cold-water fish, supplementation offers a reliable way to maintain adequate levels.

We use the Fatty15 supplement, which provides a pure, vegan-friendly form of this essential fatty acid. This supplementation approach guarantees consistent support for metabolic health and craving management.

In Summary.

Although I've suggested a few tips and tricks to reduce sugar cravings, please remember to focus on a healthy diet. Setting up a healthy diet and lifestyle will have many lasting benefits, including long-term reduction in sugar cravings and improved brain function.

For further information about healing your child with Autism, read this post about the natural treatments for autism.

If you have a picky eater and want to know more about improving the range of quality food that they eat, visit our blog on how to reduce fussy eaters here.

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