Keep your sweet tooth without sugar! Before we get into the holidays filled with sweet treats, learn how to reduce your sugar cravings and own your holidays!
We all love sugary things. Be it your favorite slice of pie or your favorite coffee cake or your favorite bar of chocolate. When we crave a certain kind of food, it is generally related to a hormonal imbalance or a need to find comfort by eating things that remind us of safety or better times; if, when you were a kid and were upset, and your dad or mom got you a burger or chocolate bar that becomes your comfort food subconsciously. What we eat is proportional to our memories and emotional desire. But how do you manage your sweet cravings without causing havoc to your body? There are ways you can reduce your cravings or replace them with a smarter choice.
Eat More Fruits
Nature has gifted us with its natural sugar – Fruits. Fruits are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, and they are, of course, sweet. Starting your day with a bowl of fruits or a smoothie gives you psychological satisfaction and reduces your sweet craving. Think of your favorite dessert and try to mimic the aroma and vision of the same. For example – if your favorite dessert is vanilla ice cream, make an ice cream with frozen banana, dates, and vanilla bean. Once you replace your craving with a healthy version, you train your mind to want the healthy one rather than the unhealthy one.
Stay Active
Craving for junk food and sugary substances could be related to boredom, depression, or hormonal imbalance as well. Staying physically active keeps your waistline in check, improves your mood, reduces depression, and reduces cravings. Staying active gives you a sense of appreciation for your body, and by seeing physical results, makes you more determined to fight your cravings.
(NOTE: Fight those sugar cravings with physical activity! Take advantage of Sunwarrior's FREE Fitness Challenge to help you kick those cravings. Get custom workouts and meal plans designed just for you. Sign up here.)
Set Reminders
Setting reminders for yourself is a great way to practice self-control and helps to keep your progress on track. Set reminders on your phone after 8pm or during times you think you naturally crave for something sweet. A simple reminder like “Don’t go for that dessert, you lose two pounds” or “Don’t eat it. You can do this!” can act as your wellness expert during times of need.
Hydrate
Hydrating yourself with at least 2–3 liters of water a day has many benefits. It improves blood circulation, removes toxins, improves organ function, and reduces food cravings. It makes you feel fuller and satisfied by preventing you from eating more than required. Have a cup of water before each meal; this differentiates thirst from hunger and fills up your stomach to the right amount, so you don’t overeat.
Over Restricted
By creating too many rules and restrictions could also be a way of failing. When people are too restricted, they to binge eat or they lose control easily. Create a cheat meal or cheat treats that you allow yourself each week. Create a balance that works for you. Also, make sure that it is a cheat meal, not a cheat day. Moderation is the key to success
Eat right. Stay active. Be Happy.
