How Candy and Sugar Can Affect Different Trauma Responses

Sugar and candy have long been associated with comfort and indulgence. For many, a chocolate bar or sugary treat can momentarily lift their spirits. However, the relationship between sugar and trauma responses is complex and often misunderstood. In this blog post, we will explore how candy and sugar can affect individuals with different trauma responses, and shed light on the psychological and physiological factors at play.

Understanding Trauma Responses

Trauma responses vary widely among individuals, and are shaped by their unique experiences and coping mechanisms. Common trauma responses include:

1.    Fight: Some individuals respond to trauma with anger, aggression, and a need for control.

2.    Flight: Others may seek to escape their emotions and memories through avoidance, distraction, or substance use.

3.    Freeze: Some individuals become immobilized and emotionally numb, finding it difficult to express or process their feelings.

4.    Fawn: People with this response tend to prioritize others' needs and seek approval to avoid conflict or rejection.

Each trauma response is a survival mechanism that serves a purpose in the context of the traumatic event. However, when these responses persist long after the trauma has ended, they can negatively impact mental and physical health.

Sugar as a Coping Mechanism

Sugar, in the form of candy or other sweet treats, can offer a temporary sense of comfort and relief from emotional distress. The rapid release of dopamine, a "feel-good" neurotransmitter, can provide a brief escape from painful emotions. The issue, however, is that these feelings do not last and are often followed by a sugar and dopamine crash along with feelings of guilt or shame.

Impact on Different Trauma Responses

1.    Fight Response: Individuals with a "fight" trauma response may find themselves craving sugary foods when they feel overwhelmed or angry. The burst of energy from sugar can mimic the adrenaline rush associated with the fight response, providing a sense of control or empowerment.

2.    Flight Response: Those who respond to trauma with "flight" may use sugar as a means of distraction or numbing. The sweet taste and pleasurable sensation can temporarily distract their attention away from distressing thoughts and memories.

3.    Freeze Response: People with a "freeze" response may struggle with emotional numbness and detachment. Sugar can provide a momentary break from this emotional numbness by stimulating pleasure centers in the brain.

4.    Fawn Response: Individuals with a "fawn" response may use sugar to seek comfort and validation from others. Offering candy or sweets can be a way to gain approval and maintain relationships, even at the expense of their own well-being.

The Downside of Sugar as a Coping Mechanism

While sugar may offer temporary relief, it's essential to recognize the potential downsides:

1.    Emotional Rollercoaster: The rapid spike and subsequent crash in blood sugar levels can exacerbate mood swings and emotional instability.

2.    Physical Health Impact: Excessive sugar consumption is associated with various health issues, including diabetes, and heart disease.

3.    Dependency: Relying on sugar as a coping mechanism can lead to dependency and an unhealthy relationship with food.

Adopting a balanced approach to sweets

Sweet treats can be part of a healthy balanced diet, however, if you find yourself reaching for them more and more often to deal with difficult emotions, here are some tips to help you manage the impact of the sugar on your mental and physical health.

1.    Pair sugary treats with fiber rich foods. This can help slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, leaving you with less of a “sugar crash.” For example, have a handful of nuts or some veggies and hummus alongside a cookie or piece of chocolate.

2.    Include protein – Just like fiber, protein helps to regulate blood sugar levels.  Pairing sugary treats with protein rich foods such as Greek yogurt, or a handful of seeds can help mitigate the impact of sweet treats.

3.    Practice mindful eating – Instead of trying to completely avoid sweets (and then later over-indulging), plan to incorporate a small portion into your diet and practice eating this mindfully, enjoying each bite undistracted. Use a bowl or plate and pair it with other foods (such as those high in protein and/or fiber) for a more balanced meal or snack.

4.    Choose healthier sweet options – while the occasional sweet treat is completely fine, there are some healthier swaps that can satisfy our sweet tooth just the same. Some examples include fruit (dried or fresh), dark chocolate, and n’ice cream. 

Conclusion

Understanding the connection between sugar and trauma responses is essential for promoting healthier coping strategies. While sweets may provide temporary comfort, they are not a long-term solution for healing from trauma. Seeking support from mental health professionals, engaging in therapy, and developing healthier coping mechanisms can lead to aa more sustainable recovery and emotional well-being. Working with a nutritionist can also be beneficial to ensure you are nourishing your body in a way that supports your mental and physical health and using mindful and intuitive eating practices.

If you would like to explore whether you are using sugar as a way of responding to trauma, I would be honoured to work alongside you. I am available in person in Langley or online throughout BC. You can reach me or the counsellors at Panorama by emailing us at info@panoramawellness.ca.