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20 Foods That Can Help Fight Sugar Cravings
What causes sugar cravings? Supposedly, the loss of balance in blood-sugar levels. Yes! Often, we get this strange craving to eat sweets and sometimes we despise sweet dishes altogether no matter how great a sweet tooth we have. The reasons for such strange craving can be many including stress, lifestyle changes, hormonal fluctuations or perhaps some medications that one is into.
Why Do You Crave for Sugar?
It is not at all unusual to crave chocolates or sweet dishes but it is sometimes equally important to understand the underlying cause of your sugar craving. We bring you some potential causes here.
Maybe it has something to do with all that is in your head. A distant memory of a pastry you had as a child that makes you visit the local bakeries often making you nostalgic or there could be reasons beyond this.
The Serotonin Theory
The serotonin theory states that the neurotransmitter serotonin is a key factor in the regulation of mood and behaviour. Studies have shown that low levels of serotonin are associated with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. One gets drawn to food that has high amounts of serotonin.
The Role of Tryptophan
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is necessary for the synthesis of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. Low levels of serotonin can cause sugar cravings, as sugar is a quick way to boost serotonin levels.
Tryptophan is also involved in the regulation of insulin, the hormone that controls blood sugar levels. When insulin levels are imbalanced, sugar cravings can occur.
20 Foods That Can Help Fight Sugar Cravings
The good news is that there are many foods that can help fight sugar cravings. In this article, we will discuss 20 such foods that are easily available around you.
Berries − Berries are packed with antioxidants and fiber, making them a great choice for satisfying sugar cravings.
Nuts − Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews are rich in healthy fats and protein that help control sugar cravings.
Dark Chocolate − Dark chocolate is a great source of antioxidants and contains less sugar than regular chocolate.
Yogurt − Yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium, which can help reduce sugar cravings.
Avocado − Avocado is rich in healthy fats and fiber, making it a great choice for snacks.
Sweet Potatoes − Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and nutrients, helping keep sugar cravings at bay.
Cinnamon − Cinnamon is a natural sugar regulator that can help control blood sugar levels and reduce sugar cravings.
Apples − Apples are a great source of fiber and can help reduce sugar cravings.
Chia Seeds − Chia seeds are rich in fiber and protein and can help keep hunger and sugar cravings at bay.
Dates − Dates are rich in natural sugars, fiber, and nutrients, making them a great snack to have when sugar cravings strike.
Quinoa − Quinoa is rich in protein and fiber and can help reduce sugar cravings.
Green tea − Green tea contains antioxidants that help reduce sugar cravings.
Broccoli − Broccoli is rich in fiber and nutrients and can help reduce sugar cravings.
Almond Butter − Almond butter is a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making it a great choice for snacks.
Hummus − Hummus is rich in protein and fiber and can help reduce sugar cravings.
Popcorn − Popcorn is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great alternative to sugary snacks.
Kale − Kale is rich in fiber and nutrients and can help reduce sugar cravings.
Lentils − Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, helping reduce sugar cravings.
Spinach − Spinach is rich in nutrients and can help reduce sugar cravings.
Edamame − Edamame is rich in protein and fiber and can help keep hunger and sugar cravings at bay.
Conclusion
There are many foods that can help fight sugar cravings. It is essential to incorporate these foods into your diet to manage your sugar intake and maintain good health and wellbeing.