Why Do People With Alcohol Use Disorders Crave Sugar?

March 4, 2025

Discover why people with alcohol use disorders crave sugar and how this impacts recovery.

Sugar Cravings in Alcohol Use Disorder

In the context of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), understanding the correlation between sugar cravings and alcohol relapse is crucial. This section aims to shed light on why people with alcohol use disorders crave sugar, linking the phenomenon with relapse and emotional coping mechanisms.

Sweet Liking and Alcohol Relapse

Research suggests a strong association between "sweet liking" (a heightened preference for highly-sweet solutions) and AUD. Notably, this preference for sweetness has been linked to a higher risk of relapse. In fact, sweet liking is considered a candidate endophenotype strongly associated with AUD and a family history of alcoholism, potentially increasing the risk of relapse.

A prospective analysis of individuals with AUD observed increases in self-reported sugar consumption and sweet cravings from an initial time (T1) to a subsequent time (T2; 4 weeks later). Sweet-cope, the use of sugar to regulate negative emotions at T1, predicted the sweet cravings at T2. This suggests a potential cyclical relationship between sweet cravings and alcohol relapse, further emphasizing the complex nature of AUD [1].

Impact of Sugar on Emotional Coping

The relationship between sweet liking, AUD, and relapse risk extends into the realm of emotional coping. The term "sweet-cope" refers to the use of sugar to cope with negative affect or emotion. It has been observed that individuals with AUD may use sugar as a means of managing negative emotions, potentially contributing to the development and persistence of sweet cravings [1].

This coping mechanism may present a modifiable risk factor in the association between sweet liking and relapse. By identifying and addressing this use of sugar in emotional coping, it may be possible to improve nutrition, manage weight-related factors, and support individuals in early recovery from AUD. However, more extensive research is required to validate these findings and develop effective interventions.

Understanding these relationships between sugar cravings, AUD, and emotional coping is crucial for developing comprehensive treatment strategies. By addressing these factors, it may be possible to support individuals in managing their recovery and reducing their risk of relapse.

Understanding Sugar Consumption

The relationship between sugar consumption and alcohol use disorders (AUD) is intricate and multifaceted. In this section, we delve into the aspects of sweet cravings in early recovery and the role of sugar as a mood enhancer.

Sweet Cravings in Early Recovery

For individuals suffering from AUD, early recovery often brings about increase in sugar consumption and sweet cravings. Preliminary studies have observed a 37% increase in sugar consumption from treatment entry to three weeks later among male inpatients undergoing alcohol detoxification. Furthermore, significant correlations have been observed between alcohol cravings and sweet cravings, particularly in the second week of recovery (source).

These findings suggest that sweet cravings may serve as a substitute for alcohol cravings during early recovery from AUD.

Sugar Substitution for Mood Improvement

In addition to acting as a surrogate for alcohol cravings, sugar is also often used as a mood enhancer by individuals in early recovery. Patients suffering from various substance disorders, including AUD, have reported substituting sweets for substances in an attempt to improve mood and soothe cravings.

In fact, two studies that investigated the link between sugar consumption and relapse in early recovery conceptualized sweets as an aid to abstinence, rather than a potential hindrance, and found preliminary support for this hypothesis.

However, it's important to note that while sugar may help in coping with alcohol cravings in the short term, its long-term effects could potentially pose a risk for treatment outcomes. A study found that AUD patients who were advised to avoid sugar reported the highest abstinence rates compared to those instructed to consume a balanced diet or use sweets to cope with alcohol cravings.

Therefore, while sugar can play a role in managing alcohol cravings during early recovery, it's crucial to approach its consumption with caution and mindfulness. It's essential to balance the immediate benefits of sugar consumption for mood improvement with its long-term effects on health and recovery success.

Biological Factors and Sugar Cravings

Two primary biological factors contribute to sugar cravings in individuals with alcohol use disorders: the dopamine system's role and genetic influences on sweet preference. By understanding these factors, we can gain a deeper insight into why people with alcohol use disorders crave sugar.

Dopamine System and Craving Mechanisms

One of the main contributors to sugar cravings in individuals with alcohol use disorders is the dopamine system. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain, plays a crucial role in the complex etiological network of alcohol dependence. Dopamine release is induced in a dose-response fashion when ethanol is injected into the nucleus accumbens, reinforcing the rewarding effects of alcohol consumption.

Studies show that intermittent, excessive sugar intake can lead to behaviors similar to drug addiction, including bingeing, withdrawal, craving, and cross-sensitization. These behaviors were accompanied by changes in neurochemicals, such as alterations in dopamine and opioid receptor binding and mRNA expression, and changes in acetylcholine release in the nucleus accumbens [3].

Genetic Influence on Sweet Preference

In addition to the dopamine system, genetic factors also play a significant role in alcohol dependence and associated sugar cravings. Genetic variations can influence the functioning of the dopamine system and its response to alcohol, potentially contributing to the craving and reward-seeking behavior observed in individuals with alcohol use disorders.

There seems to be a genetic component underlying the sweet preference observed in alcohol- and drug-dependent individuals, as well as in children of alcoholic parents. Specific genes have been identified that may contribute to this preference, and common genetic markers have been found between alcohol dependence, bulimia, and obesity [4].

In conclusion, both the dopamine system's function and genetic influences play significant roles in sugar cravings among individuals with alcohol use disorders. Understanding these factors can help individuals and professionals manage these cravings effectively as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy.

Psychological Factors and Sugar Cravings

In the context of understanding why people with alcohol use disorders crave sugar, it is crucial to acknowledge the role of psychological factors. Emotional distress and the utilization of certain coping mechanisms can significantly influence sugar consumption behaviors.

Emotional Distress and Sugar Consumption

Emotional distress is often a key driver of sugar consumption among individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). As per a PubMed study, there is a link between the use of sugar to cope with negative affect (termed as sweet-cope) and heightened preference for highly sweet solutions (sweet liking), which is also related to AUD and chances of relapse. Further, it was observed that sweet-cope at Time 1 (T1) could predict sweet craving at Time 2 (T2; 4 weeks later).

These findings highlight the potential role of sugar as a coping mechanism for emotional distress among people with AUD. The consumption of sugar, especially in high amounts, can trigger the release of endorphins and dopamine in the brain, creating a temporary feeling of happiness or relief from negative emotions [4]. This could be a significant factor contributing to the increased sugar consumption and sweet cravings observed in early recovery from alcohol use disorders.

Coping Mechanisms in Alcohol Recovery

The coping mechanisms employed during alcohol recovery can also influence sugar cravings. As mentioned before, the use of sugar to regulate negative affect could be a modifiable risk mechanism linking sweet liking and relapse. It could also be a potential intervention target for improving nutrition and weight-related factors in early recovery.

It is crucial to note that while sugar might provide temporary relief from negative emotions, excessive sugar intake can lead to behaviors similar to drug addiction, including bingeing, withdrawal, craving, and cross-sensitization. For instance, lab rats with intermittent access to sugar showed increased intake of sugar, signs of opiate-like withdrawal, enhanced motivation for sugar after abstinence, increased locomotor response to psychostimulants, and increased alcohol intake.

The psychological factors influencing sugar cravings among people with AUD are complex and multifaceted. Understanding these factors can help in developing effective treatment strategies that address both alcohol and sugar cravings, ultimately improving recovery outcomes. Future research in larger sample sizes is needed to further explore and validate these findings.

Nutritional Implications

Understanding the role of nutrition in alcohol use disorders (AUD) is crucial in addressing why these individuals often crave sugar. By exploring the connection between nutrient deficiencies and sugar cravings, as well as the impact of diet on recovery success, we can shed light on the complex relationship between AUD and sugar.

Nutrient Deficiencies and Sugar Cravings

Excessive alcohol consumption can impair the body's ability to absorb and metabolize nutrients effectively, leading to deficiencies in essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. These deficiencies can contribute to the craving for sugar as the body seeks alternative sources of energy and nutrients.

Interestingly, emerging research suggests that the composition of gut microbes may play a role in influencing cravings, including those for alcohol and sugar. Microbes in the gastrointestinal tract have the ability to manipulate host eating behavior to enhance their own fitness. Furthermore, studies have shown that individuals who desire certain foods, such as chocolate, have different microbial metabolites in their urine compared to individuals who are indifferent to those foods, even when their diets are identical.

Such findings suggest the potential role that gut microbiota may play in shaping dietary preferences and cravings, including sugar cravings in individuals with AUD.

Role of Diet in Recovery Success

Diet plays a crucial role in the recovery process for individuals with AUD. A well-balanced diet can help to correct nutrient deficiencies, reduce sugar cravings, and improve overall health and well-being. However, the connection between AUD and sugar cravings is influenced by a combination of biological and psychological factors.

Alcohol consumption increases dopamine release in the brain, which contributes to the pleasurable effects of alcohol. When individuals with AUD stop drinking, their dopamine levels drop, leading to a craving for substances that can replicate or enhance these pleasurable effects. This can include sugary foods and beverages.

Psychological factors, such as emotional distress and stress, can also contribute to sugar cravings in individuals with AUD. Sugar can serve as a coping mechanism for managing emotional distress and stress. People with AUD may turn to sugar as a substitute to regulate emotions, fill the void left by alcohol, or provide temporary comfort and pleasure [5].

In conclusion, understanding the nutritional implications of AUD and sugar cravings is an essential component of developing effective treatment strategies. A balanced diet, combined with appropriate psychological and medical support, can potentially improve recovery outcomes and reduce the risk of relapse in individuals with AUD.

Treatment Strategies

Addressing the topic of 'why do people with alcohol use disorders crave sugar', it's crucial to explore feasible treatment strategies. These can aid in managing sugar intake during recovery and addressing sugar cravings in treatment.

Managing Sugar Intake in Recovery

During the early stages of recovery from Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), there's a tendency for individuals to substitute sweets for substances to improve mood and soothe cravings source. However, this increase in sugar consumption can pose a risk for treatment outcomes.

In one study, it was found that patients with AUD who were told to avoid sugar reported the greatest abstinence rates compared to those instructed to consume a balanced diet or to use sweets to cope with alcohol cravings source. Consequently, it is vital to manage sugar intake during recovery and find healthier alternatives to cope with cravings.

Addressing Sugar Cravings in Treatment

Many patients in early recovery from AUD have reported using sugar as a substitute for alcohol to regulate emotions, fill the void left by alcohol, or provide temporary comfort and pleasure source.

A behavior referred to as 'Sweet-cope' involves using sweets to cope with negative affects. This behavior may serve as a modifiable risk mechanism of the association between sweet liking and relapse in AUD, and therefore, could be targeted for intervention source.

By addressing sugar cravings and finding alternative coping mechanisms, individuals can reduce the likelihood of relapse and improve their chances of successfully recovering from AUD. This might involve the incorporation of dietary changes, regular exercise, and psychological support to manage cravings and improve overall well-being.

Overall, understanding the underlying causes of sugar cravings in those with AUD is essential in formulating effective treatment strategies. By managing sugar intake and addressing sugar cravings, individuals with AUD can improve their overall well-being and enhance their chances of successful recovery.