This holiday season, I realized I made a mistake. I decided to let my kids enjoy some sweet treats. They found chocolate in their stockings, ate cookies at Grandma’s, and we even made some healthy homemade chocolate and marshmallows.
For my 5-year-old, moderation is tough. She can’t just have a small amount; the first taste leads to wanting more until everything’s gone. Her body craves more sugar, and it’s hard to stop. Unfortunately, she doesn’t handle sugar well. I’ll skip the details, but even small amounts lead to unpleasant symptoms. Apparently, moderation isn’t an option for her.
I want her to enjoy a sweet treat now and then, especially during special occasions, but moderation just doesn’t work. This shouldn’t surprise me because I’m the same way. Like her, I can’t just have a little sugar without wanting more.
I found cutting out all sugars, even artificial ones, from my diet stopped the cravings. I no longer have a sweet tooth, and it’s easier to not have sweets at all than to try occasional indulgence. This approach also worked for my kids.
Whenever I mention I don’t eat sweets, people say my approach is “extreme” and suggest moderation instead. But reactions are even stronger when I say my kids don’t eat sweets–people worry they’re missing out. Though we make exceptions occasionally, especially during holidays, I often regret it. For my kids and me, moderation just doesn’t work.
Maybe sweets aren’t your thing; maybe it’s chips or another snack. Not everyone needs to abstain completely, but if you struggle to stop once you start, consider whether skipping it entirely would be better for you. Give it a try, see how it feels. And if you find that moderation is possible for you, I have a great chocolate recipe you could enjoy.
