AIM: Food addiction and the diseases it causes are now epidemic in developed
countries Sugar cravings are complicit in overeating, which has become ubiquitous.
Dietary intake, exercise, blood pressure and body composition have a strong interaction
with sugar cravings. Previous research has established the relationship between dietary
intake and exercise levels, but new research must be done to understand the other variables.
The aim of this study is to expand previous research on predictors of sugar cravings.
METHOD: The study assessed 56 students at the University of Chichester using
questionnaires, a blood pressure cuff, a body compositions analyser, and a seven-day food
diary. RESULTS: Results found that a model of fat and protein intake accounted for 13.9%
of the variance in sugar cravings. The Pearson’s Correlations Matrix presented an
association between macronutrients and body composition variables. Independent Samples
t-Test results showed no differences between male and female sugar cravings; however,
differences exist between other variables. CONCLUSIONS: Findings indicate that
different combinations of dietary intakes, especially the ratios of fat and protein, have direct
effects on sugar cravings and suggest a causal mechanism. The study provides
recommendations for a more in-depth analysis and more accurate data collection.
IMPLICATIONS: Results suggest that high-protein, low-fat diets have the biggest impact
on lowering sugar cravings. Making dietary adjustments can have the greatest impact on
decreasing sugar cravings and can help break the cycle of bad eating habits. Future research
should be completed to more accurately acquire data (i.e. avoid self-reported data) and
capture additional measures and variables (i.e. psychological variables).