How to Satisfy Sugar Cravings

Whether we should be including sugar in our diets has been in dispute for a while now and recently entered the press again with books such as Sarah Wilson’s ‘I Quit Sugar’ hitting the shelves, causing us to question it even more. However, sugar is and will always be a part of our diets but there are several ways you can curb those sugar cravings, leaving you completely satisfied but also ensuring you aren’t depriving your body of any sugary goodness. Sugar is an important part of our diets however, should most definitely be consumed in moderation to avoid any associated health risk. So, here are our top five tips for curbing sugar cravings:

1.  Yogurt

Many yogurts in the supermarkets are made using good, active bacteria which ensures we have a healthy amount of good bacteria in our digestive tracts (encouraging a healthy digestive system!) Not only is yogurt the perfect snack to satisfy cravings but it’s also filled with protein, calcium, vitamin b-12, potassium and magnesium. Yogurt’s high protein content makes it a great post-workout snack as it provides the amino acids your muscles need to repair themselves after a gym session.

2.     Dark Chocolate

Chocolate has always been seen as one of the worst sugary treats you can have, however, dark chocolate actually has the opposite effect. Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants, which can help prevent tooth decay, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and even depression. Whilst it still has a high calorie content its still a great food to snack on in moderation. A good quality dark chocolate is high in potassium, copper, magnesium or iron, making it a nutritional way to get in your sugar for the day.

3.     Smoothie

Fruit smoothies are a great way to consume healthy sugars whilst satisfying any cravings. However, smoothies are surprisingly high in sugar content so this too should be enjoyed in moderation. They’re a great way to ensure you’re getting in at least 1-2 portions of your recommended fruit intake but are also full of fibre which helps to slow digestion and may help to control blood sugar and lower cholesterol. Bananas make a great smoothie base as they add that extra thick creamy texture.

4.     Cinnamon

Not as easy as the others to get in to our diet but extremely effective in satisfying your sweet tooth. The main active ingredient of cinnamon is hydroxychalcome which helps enhance the effects of insulin and satisfies your sugar cravings. Cinnamon also prevents the blood sugar spikes that cause sugar cravings and normalises blood sugar levels. (www.naturalnews.com)

5.     EAT CAKE

There’s nothing wrong with having a slice of cake to satisfy your sweet tooth. Her Campus recommends instead making a mini version of your favourite dessert or cake, that way you satisfy your cravings without any guilt. Depriving our bodies of sugar will only makes us crave it even more. 

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