Lower your sugar cravings with dark chocolate, berries, green tea, more
Sugar cravings are intense desires for sweet foods, often driven by stress, lack of sleep, or dietary imbalances. Here are nine foods that can effectively reduce sugar cravings and help you maintain better control over your dietary choices.
Sugar cravings can be a major hurdle for those trying to maintain a healthy diet. These cravings often lead to overconsumption of sugary foods, which can result in weight gain, energy crashes, and an increased risk of various health issues like diabetes and heart disease. Fortunately, incorporating certain foods into your diet can help curb these cravings by stabilizing blood sugar levels, providing essential nutrients, and promoting satiety. Here are nine foods that can effectively reduce sugar cravings and help you maintain better control over your dietary choices. (Image: Canva).
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Berries: Rich in fibre and antioxidants, berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provide natural sweetness and help stabilise blood sugar levels, says Noida based Dietician Siya Sharma. The fibre content in berries slows the absorption of sugar, reducing the likelihood of a spike in blood sugar and subsequent cravings. (Image: Canva).
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Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fibre, says Sharma. These nutrients promote satiety and balance blood sugar levels, helping to keep cravings at bay, says Sharma. Consuming nuts and seeds as snacks can be particularly effective in preventing the urge to reach for sugary treats. (Image: Canva).
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Greek yoghurt: High in protein and probiotics, Greek yoghurt is a satisfying snack that can help reduce sugar cravings. Protein increases feelings of fullness, while probiotics support gut health, which can influence sugar cravings, says Sharma. Opting for plain Greek yoghurt with fresh fruit can be a delicious and nutritious way to fend off cravings. (Image: Canva).
Avocados: Loaded with healthy fats, fibre, and various essential nutrients, avocados are a versatile and filling food. The combination of healthy fats and fibre helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and prolongs satiety, making it easier to resist the temptation of sugary snacks. (Image: Canva).
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Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are excellent sources of fibre and protein. These nutrients help keep you full longer and prevent blood sugar spikes, reducing the desire for sugary snacks. Incorporating legumes into meals can provide long-lasting energy and decrease cravings. (Image: Canva).
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Sweet potatoes: Naturally sweet and rich in fibre and vitamins, sweet potatoes can satisfy sweet cravings healthily. Their complex carbohydrates are digested slowly, providing a steady energy release and reducing sugar cravings. Baked or roasted sweet potatoes can be a delicious and nutritious alternative to sugary desserts. (Image: Canva).
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Cinnamon: This spice can add natural sweetness to foods without adding sugar. Cinnamon helps improve insulin sensitivity, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cravings. Sprinkling cinnamon on oatmeal, yogurt, or fruit can enhance flavour and help control sugar intake. (Image: Canva).
Dark chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content, which is lower in sugar and higher in beneficial antioxidants. A small amount of dark chocolate can satisfy chocolate cravings without a significant sugar intake, and its bitterness can reduce the desire for more sweets. Enjoying a piece of dark chocolate mindfully can be a rewarding and healthy treat. (Image: Canva).
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Green tea: Rich in antioxidants, green tea can be a refreshing beverage to help curb sugar cravings. Compounds like catechins in green tea can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the desire for sweet snacks, says Sharma. Drinking green tea throughout the day can provide a soothing and healthful way to manage cravings. Incorporating these foods into your daily diet can help manage sugar cravings effectively, leading to better overall health and wellness. (Image: Canva).
Nivedita is a Delhi-based journalist who writes on health, fashion, lifestyle and entertainment. Views expressed are personal.
