I’ll use any excuse to wear bunny ears, but in this case I’m talking about sugar cravings. And how to deal with them so they don’t rule your life.
In this post I’ll share my top five tips for reducing sugar cravings. The fifth one may surprise you.
This is all kind of basic, commonsense stuff. Not sexy, but it works. And we all need a reminder sometimes.
So let’s cut to the chase…here you go:
Get enough sleep.
So simple but so true. There is some real science behind this. When you’re not getting enough sleep it messes with the production of the hormones leptin and ghrelin that regulate hunger and satiety. And I have certainly noticed this anecdotally. Just the other day I found myself having some pretty strong cravings. Don’t think it was a coincidence that I had totally skimped on sleep the night before.
Stay hydrated.
Again, not sexy. But it works. Staying properly hydrated helps with all kinds of cravings. Sometimes we think we’re hungry when we’re really just thirsty. This doesn’t mean you need to chug a gallon of water all at once. It’s better to space it out throughout the day. Keep a bottle of water next to your bed so you can take a quick sip if you wake up. Drink a big glass first thing in the am and then space it out throughout the day.
Eat enough fat.
Fat keeps us satiated, and consuming enough fat helps reduce all kinds of cravings. I personally follow a Paleo/Keto lifestyle that ensures I get plenty of high quality fat. However you choose to eat, make sure you are consuming some fat with every meal. Not only does it help to reduce cravings, it allows your body to better absorb the nutrients from your food. One of my favorite tips is to grab a spoonful of cashew butter if you’re craving something sweet. It has a naturally sweet taste, but the fat is very satisfying.
Find some healthy alternatives.
Have some options that will satisfy your sweet tooth without being loaded with crap. Maybe it’s a spoonful (or two) of cashew butter like I mentioned above. Or some berries…not only are they loaded with fiber and antioxidants, they just feel indulgent. If you want to play in the kitchen, there are tons of recipes out there for healthier versions of your favorite treats. And so many that you can buy. I just returned from FitCon, an amazing fitness expo, where I tried some delicious Keto treats, including cookies and chocolate chips.
And here’s my last tip, which might surprise you…
Eat the damn candy.
I truly mean this, because happy, healthy and hot is not about deprivation or restriction. If there is some seasonal treat that you are dying for, go ahead and have it. But do it intentionally. Whether your thing is a package of Peeps, a giant peanut butter egg, or a chocolate bunny, take the time to truly savor it. Enjoy every last bit of it, guilt free. And get on with your life.
So there you have it, my top five tips for avoiding sugar cravings. Drop a comment and let me know yours.
SHOP THE POST:
Keto Chocolate Chips I just tried these on my trip to Salt Lake City for FitCon and they are amazing!!!
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