Doctor Debunks Myth About Sugar Addiction
A dietitian from Denmark explains why sugar cravings are not addiction, but a behavioral habit
Sugar does not cause physical dependence similar to drugs or alcohol. This was stated by Sandra Vigelene, a nutrition expert from VIA College at Aarhus University, in an interview with WellnessPulse.
According to the doctor, despite widespread claims in the media, sugar does not cause clinically significant addiction and does not require medical detox. The craving for sweets is most often associated with behavioral factors.
“Sugar is not a toxin that the body needs to be ‘cleansed’ of. Overconsumption of sweets is more about the type, quantity, and consumption habits,” Vigelene explained.
Sugar and "Detox": A Scientific Perspective
The doctor commented on the popularity of diets that promise a "sugar detox." She emphasized that the body does not need to be cleansed of sugar — what matters is balance and moderation.
According to WHO recommendations, adults are allowed to consume up to 50 grams of added sugar per day (about 12 teaspoons) based on a 2,000-calorie diet. This limit does not include naturally occurring sugars in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
Why "Sugar Addiction" Occurs
The expert explained that cravings for sweets often develop due to:
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strict diets and sudden sugar elimination,
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insufficient food intake during the day,
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emotional eating triggered by stress or anxiety.
Animal studies have shown that a combination of sugar with fats or refined carbohydrates can activate pleasure centers in the brain, forming behavioral habits. However, sugar does not cause physical dependence in the medical sense.
“This means a person does not experience withdrawal symptoms like those associated with alcohol or drug cessation. So, it’s a habit — not a disease,” the dietitian added.
