In this episode, Tina chats with sugar-free coach Melissa Dowbiggin to explore the science behind sugar cravings and practical strategies to manage them effectively. Melissa dives into the role of dopamine in sugar addiction, the harmful effects of ultra-processed foods, and the impact of artificial sweeteners. She highlights the importance of balanced meals packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, shares mindful eating practices, and discusses the pros and cons of going cold turkey versus gradually reducing sugar intake. Melissa also offers healthy, satisfying alternatives to sugary snacks.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

- How dopamine drives your sugar cravings

- How ultra processed foods, sugar alcohols, and artificial sweeteners work against you

- The impact of blood sugar balance on cravings and hunger

- Simple mindful eating practices to curb cravings

- What a truly balanced meal looks like and why it matters

- Cold turkey vs. gradual sugar reduction: Which is better?

- Delicious and healthy alternatives to sugary snacks

- The link between candida, gut health, and sugar cravings

- The most common hurdles women face on their sugar-free journey

Connect with Melissa Dowbiggin:

https://www.befreeandeat.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/befreeandeat/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/befreeandeat

Threads - @befreeandeat

About Melissa Dowbiggin:

Melissa Dowbiggin, The Sugar-Free Coach, is on a mission to empower women to break free from sugar cravings, reclaim their energy, and live vibrant, healthy lives. After years of battling her own sugar addiction and feeling trapped in a cycle of fatigue, frustration, and yo-yo dieting, Melissa transformed her life with nutrient dense foods and a sugar-free lifestyle. Her deep passion for health and wellness led her to study at the Institute of Holistic Nutrition and become a Certified Nutritional Practitioner.

Now, she dedicates herself to guiding others on the same life-changing journey. Through her Sugar-Free Coaching Community, where she offers programs like the 12-Week Sugar Cravings Solution and 7-Day Sugar Free Challenge, Melissa inspires and supports women to take control of their health and create lasting, positive change.

Connect with Tina Haupert:

https://carrotsncake.com/

Facebook: Carrots 'N' Cake https://www.facebook.com/carrotsncake

Instagram: carrotsncake https://www.instagram.com/carrotsncake

YouTube: Tina Haupert https://www.youtube.com/user/carrotsncake

Pinterest: Carrots 'N' Cake Hormone Testing & Nutrition Coaching https://www.pinterest.com/carrotsncake/

About Tina Haupert:

Tina Haupert is the owner of Carrots ‘N’ Cake as well as a Certified Nutrition Coach and Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner (FDN-P).

Tina and her team use functional testing and a personalized approach to nutrition to help women find balance within their diets while achieving their body composition goals.