Curb sugar cravings by eating healthy
Most of us have experienced the strong urge to bite into something sweet, especially when we know we need to avoid extra sugar. Unfortunately, that tiny bite becomes a full-fledged binge, and without even conscious realisation, we may end up eating a big chunk of that much-desired chocolate cake. Though having sugar is associated with an instant boost in energy and mood, the dip in energy (and mood after the binge) can be equally extreme. With the subsequent low, the body craves for more sugar. The good news is that there is hope and curbing your sweet cravings in a healthy manner is possible. Just follow these simple steps:
Eat small frequent meals: Do not stay hungry for too long. Long gaps between meals and large quantity of the main meals causes drastic fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Due to the long gaps, one ends up feeling extremely hungry by meal time, and gives into gorging on unhealthy sugary foods Get moving: Start some form of daily activity or exercise routine. This is because exercising, too, helps release feel-good hormones similar to the ones released after sugar consumption.
Clear the house of all sweets: Give away all your sweets or stash them away only to be taken out when you have guests. Chocolate-coated fruits:Treat yourself with a double dose of health. Dip some of your favourite fresh fruits such as strawberry, apple, banana, etc. in melted dark, sugar-free chocolate (it is loaded with polyphenols and bioflavonoids) and have it as a treat after meals. This will not only fulfil your sweet cravings but also add the much required antioxidants and fibre to your diet. Sorbets and frozen fruit treats: Freeze your favourite fruit juice, blend it and perk it up with lemon juice and rock salt. These drinks are a delicious alternative to sugary ice-cream. Natural sweeteners: Use jaggery, honey or dates to sweeten desserts. Eat sweet vegetables: Raw carrots are sweet and juicy, and help to overcome a craving if chewed slowly; enough to bring out their natural flavour.