9 Easy Ways to Curb Sugar Cravings

Are you the one who has Sweet tooth? Who reaches out for a piece of cake, any sweet or chocolate as an afternoon slump or to overcome a bad day or just as a habit to eat every time after a meal.

Ever wondered why sugar cravings are hard to manage??

Sugar is addictive in nature. The more you eat the more you want. It releases the hormone Endorphin which calms and relaxes us, giving us a good high.

It is important to reduce sugar intake because:

-Daily excessive intake changes the gut microflora. This leads to bloating, stomach upsets, heartburn.

– Sugar is an empty calorie. Means it provides only calories with no nutrients.

Ways to curb this cravings:

  1. Eat a little: Eat a bite of what you are craving for. Munching  a little of what you craving for will help you to overcome the feeling of denial.
  2. Reach for a fruit: Fruits are rich in fibres and nutrients along with the sweet taste.
  3. Eat on time: Eating meals at regular intervals keeps your blood sugar level stable and help in avoiding irrational eating behaviour.
  4. Choose quality over quantity: If you crave for sugar, pick a healthier option but keep it small. For example, dark chocolate with 70% cocoa.
  5. Drink a glass of water: Dehydration is a known cause of sugar cravings. Having a glass of water can curb this cravings.
  6. Divert your mind: When you get sugar cravings, get up and go for a walk. You can also phone a friend or take a bath to relax.
  7. Increase the intake of fibre: Fibre help to slow the absorption of the food you eat, so mind is busy into the delayed digestion process and curb sugar cravings.
  8. Skip artificial sweeteners as they tend to increase the cravings.
  9. Sleep well- An well slept  relaxed mind and body has better position to control the sugar craving.

Here are some Healthy alternatives to sugar cravings:

  • Fruits
  • Dark chocolate
  • Nuts and mixed seeds bar
  • Berries
  • Dates
  • Cinnamon
  • Yogurt
  • Sweet potato
  • Prunes
  • Chia seeds