These 5 simple hacks will help you tame your sugar cravings

Tried everything under the sun to reduce your sugar intake? Well, then it’s time to give these expert-recommended tricks a shot.
sugar cravings
Say no to sugar and yes to a healthy life. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Nikita Bhardwaj Published: 10 Oct 2020, 11:23 am IST
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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!

But first let’s understand why you actually get this sugar rush

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.

Now it’s time to learn five simple hacks that will help you limit your love for sugar:
1. Don’t starve yourself

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.

sugar cravings
Please don’t starve yourself. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

“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.

2. Drink more water

“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.

3. Get proper sleep

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.

4. Add healthy condiments to your diet

“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.

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sugar cravings
Sattu is great in taste, its refreshing, and curb sugar cravings too. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
5. Get diagnosed for vitamin and mineral deficiency

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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About the Author

Six-pack abs are all that Nikita needs, along with her daily dose of green tea. At Health Shots, she produces videos, podcasts, stories, and other kick-ass content. ...Read More

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