According to Christine Gerbstadt, MD, RD, and dietitian and American Diabetes Association (ADA) spokeswoman, sweet is the first craving humans have from birth, so it’s natural that we prefer the taste of sugary foods. And against what we all may think, sugar isn’t necessarily all bad for you. The taste of sugar releases endorphins that help to relax us, and triggers the release of serotonin in the brain because it is a carbohydrate. Unfortunately for those sweet-tooth’s out there, sugar can lead to a list of health issues if we don’t learn how to manage and curb our cravings early on.
Give in a little.
You don’t have to quit cold turkey and completely eliminate sugar from your diet right off the bat. Let yourself indulge just a little by cutting the portions or serving size of the sweet treat you’re reaching for while getting the small sugar fix your body was craving. Kerry Neville, RD, MS, a registered dietitian and ADA spokeswoman says sticking to a 150-calorie threshold is ideal.
Combine your craving with something healthy.
If chocolate is your sweet-tooth weakness, grab a handful of chocolate covered almonds or dip your cherries, strawberries, or bananas right into some melted chips. While fulfilling your guilty cravings, you’re also giving your body some vitamins and nutrients that it needs.
Walk away from the situation.
When your sweet-tooth calls, just walk away. Create a distraction by leaving the house and going for a walk, completing a to-do list task, or changing your scenery.
Eat more protein rich foods.
Loading up on foods that are high in protein like nuts, legumes, and seeds help to alleviate that sugar craving we often get after a meal.
If you’re looking for more great ideas for how to fuel your body with healthy food that will quench your sugar cravings, check out:
