Photo by Freepik
Written by Navneet Kaur, M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics
Diet
We all crave sweets sometimes, but eating too much sugar can make you feel tired and low on energy. The good news? You can control those cravings without feeling like you're missing out. Let's see how.
Photo by Freepik
Don't cut sugar all at once. Reduce it bit by bit so your taste buds can adjust. Soon, you won't need as much to feel satisfied.
Photo by Freepik
Sugary drinks like sodas, juices, and sweetened teas may increase your blood sugar level without keeping you full. They also add calories quickly, leading to weight gain. You can go for infused water or herbal teas for a healthier choice.
Photo by Freepik
Sources like whole dals, vegetables, fruits and oats contain good amount of fiber. Adding them to your diet keeps you feeling full for a longer period of time, thus preventing sudden hunger spikes that lead to sugar cravings.
Photo by Freepik
Protein helps in stabilising blood sugar levels and reducing appetite, making it easier to resist sweets. Sources are eggs, paneer, curd, legumes, and lean meats.
Photo by Freepik
Healthy fats keep you full for hours, thus reducing the urge to snack on sugary foods. Sources: nuts, seeds and sunflower oil.
Photo by Freepik
Using natural sweeteners like jaggery, dates or honey instead of white sugar, satisfy your sugar cravings and also provide some nutrients.
Photo by Freepik
You can choose healthy options, like when you want to eat dessert, go for fruit, plain yogurt with berries, dark chocolate or nuts instead of sweets.
Photo by Freepik
Sometimes cravings happen because you're tired or stressed, not exactly because you are hungry. Getting good sleep and relaxing might help control them.
Photo by Freepik
You don't have to give up on sweets completely. Small changes like healthy swaps, balanced meals, and better sleep can help you control sugar cravings and feel better every day.
Photo by Freepik
Photo by Freepik
Here's what to read next