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It doesn’t matter if you are a diabetic or not, because sugar is still your biggest foe. But if you’ve tried everything and failed to control those cravings, then we’ve got some great news for you. Today we’ve pledged to bring you out of this vicious cycle by giving you some foolproof tips to control your urge to reach out for that big bar of chocolate or that tub of ice-cream!
According to science, it happens majorly because you don’t eat at regular intervals. When you don’t eat, your blood sugar level drops and your body craves for more sugar.
Another culprit is a low-protein diet. Proteins are digested slowly, and they release sugar in our body at a very low pace. That’s why people who eat a high protein diet don’t have major sugar cravings.
But those of you who hardly consume protein have frequent blood sugar fluctuations, due to which your body craves for more sugar to feel energised.
Dieticians advise against crash dieting, because it increases sugar cravings and instead of losing weight, you gain extra kilos. Plus, include more proteins and healthy carbs in your diet to maintain healthy blood glucose levels.
“It is very important to have your meals on time, in order to reduce cravings. If you still feel like eating something sweet, then go for natural sugars like banana, apple, grapes, etc,“ suggests Dr Aditi Sharma, dietician, Columbia Asia Hospital, Ghaziabad.
“It is important to keep yourself hydrated all the time, not just for the sake of your health but also to curb sugar cravings. Basically, when you are dehydrated, it becomes difficult for the liver to release glucose in the body. That’s why to get some energy, your body asks for more sugar, and hence you crave sweets”, she explains.
Dr Sharma suggests that cravings may not necessarily indicate one is hungry – it can be an emotional state of mind or stress. And to balance your emotions, your body requires sound sleep.
“Seven hours sleep is a must, if you want to limit your sugar intake”, suggests Dr Sharma.
“Replace and reduce cravings through natural substitutes like chewing anise (suaf), roasted cumin seeds, cardamom etc. Intake of sattu also helps to maintain the blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Almonds can also be a good replacement”, she suggests.
If you are craving too much sugar, then there are high chances that your body is lacking in major micro and macronutrients like vitamins and minerals. You must visit your doctor, and get yourself diagnosed soon.
“Having a balanced meal, and on time, is the best way to beat sugar cravings, as it fulfills the nutritional requirements of the body”, concludes Dr Sharma.
Well, aren’t these some neat tricks to divert your attention from sugar? So, try them all to be in the pink of health!
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