Stop being a slave to sugar: 6 tips to beat your sweet cravings
Tired of being a slave to your sweet tooth? Don't worry, you've come to the right place! Between cakes, sweets, soft drinks and other sweet treats, resisting the call of sugar can seem like a mission impossible. But with a few tips and a better understanding of your needs, you can beat those cravings and adopt a healthier diet.
1. Understanding food cravings
Did you know that your body is programmed to love sugar? In fact, sugar activates our brain's reward system and releases chemical compounds in the same category as those released when cuddling or having a good time with friends. But don't worry, understanding these mechanisms is the first step in dealing with them.
2. Favour whole foods
Refined sugar, which is found in many industrial products, causes blood sugar levels to spike, making sugar cravings worse. Wholemeal foods, on the other hand, are rich in fibre, allowing sugars to be absorbed slowly and avoiding blood sugar spikes. So, to avoid sugar cravings, opt for wholegrain cereals, legumes and green vegetables.
3. Stay hydrated
We rarely think about it, but dehydration can often be mistaken for a sugar craving. So before you give in to a sugar craving, try drinking a big glass of water. You'll be surprised to find that it can be enough to make the craving go away.
4. Physical activity
Sport helps to regulate your appetite and reduce snacking cravings. What's more, after a session of physical activity, your body will prefer to crave protein to repair your muscles rather than sugar.
5. Get enough sleep
Lack of sleep disrupts our satiety hormones and increases our appetite, particularly for sugary foods. So to regulate your sugar cravings, make sure you get at least 7 to 8 hours' sleep a night.
6. Eat protein for breakfast
Finally, to avoid sweet cravings throughout the day, remember to include protein in your breakfast. This will help you feel fuller for longer and reduce the urge to snack.
In the final analysis, overcoming sugar cravings doesn't require superhuman willpower, but rather a better understanding of your needs and a few adjustments to your daily routine. So, are you ready to free your diet from the grip of sugar?