I overindulged this holiday season — a ridiculous amount. Since around Halloween I’ve been indulging in every cookie, cake, chocolate and candy I could find, usually washed down with a large cup of sugar‑laced coffee. Hello, my name is Jordan, and I’m a sugar addict.
It wasn’t always like this. As a child and into my early twenties I enjoyed the occasional sweet treat but I didn’t crave sugar the way I do now. About ten years ago something shifted — my sweet tooth seemed to flip on — and since then cravings have become more frequent and intense. On some nights I even dream about fudge and ice cream.
Recognizing the change helped me start to pay attention to patterns and triggers. Parties and holidays are obvious culprits, but so are stress, boredom and routines that center around coffee or snacks. When I reach for a sugary snack without thinking, I try to pause and ask whether I’m actually hungry, thirsty, tired or just looking for comfort. Sometimes a glass of water, a short walk, or a handful of nuts satisfies the urge and breaks the automatic reach for sweets.
Small, practical adjustments have also made a difference. Keeping temptations out of sight, swapping to lower‑sugar coffee options, and planning balanced meals with protein and fiber help reduce spikes in blood sugar that fuel cravings. I also find that replacing a ritual — like enjoying a warm beverage — with a herbal tea or flavored seltzer can maintain the comfort without the extra sugar.
It’s important to be patient and realistic. Cutting sugar completely overnight rarely works and often backfires. Setbacks happen, especially during holidays and celebrations, but they don’t erase progress. Instead of treating slips as failures, I view them as learning moments that reveal what situations or emotions make me vulnerable.
Support matters too. Talking with friends or family about goals, or seeking advice from a nutrition professional, can provide accountability and practical strategies. Tracking intake for a short time can reveal hidden sources of added sugar and help guide healthier choices without becoming obsessive.
Ultimately, the goal for me is balance: enjoying treats on occasion while building routines and habits that prevent daily overconsumption. I’m not aiming for perfection, just better choices that make me feel energized and in control. If you find yourself in the same place after the holidays, know that small changes add up and it’s possible to reclaim healthier habits one step at a time.