by Anishametra Saravanan  

It’s mid-afternoon and you’re at your desk. The clock ticks away slowly and you feel a familiar tug in your stomach. You know it’s not hunger but the tiny voice in your head is saying, ‘It would be nice to have a little sweet treat…’

Many of us have been there, regularly experiencing those sugar cravings that can derail our healthy habits. While giving in may bring temporary joy, it often leads to an inevitable sugar crash. But don’t worry! Here are 5 ways to beat your sugar cravings and stay on track:

Protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, eggs and tofu are especially great for satiety and it can help with cravings as well. By incorporating more protein into your meals, you can keep those pesky sugar cravings at bay and feel fuller for longer.

Having a piece of fruit may help satisfy sugar cravings for some people. Not only do they provide natural sweetness, but they also come with fiber and essential nutrients, making them a much healthier option than candy or cookies. So, grab yourself an apple, orange or banana for a mid-day snack!  

If you’re craving something sweet and trying to resist the urge, a short and brisk walk may just do the trick! The exercise will release endorphins, or “feel-good” chemicals in your brain, which can help turn the craving off. Plus, it gives you a break from whatever you were doing, allowing you to return with a fresh perspective. 

When you get a craving while you’re hungry, the feeling is difficult to resist. In fact, a craving combined with hunger is a powerful drive that most people have a hard time overcoming. One of the best tricks to address the urge is to eat a proper and well-balanced meal immediately. Stock your kitchen with healthy snack foods or pre-made meals to ensure you have nutritious options at hand. 

It can be very helpful to remember why you want to sustain a healthy lifestyle, as it can be hard to recall such things when you get a craving. Whether it’s for better health, having more energy throughout the day, or eating less processed food, keeping your reasons in mind can provide the motivation you need to resist temptation. 

Maintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet is crucial for long-term health, but it’s also important to enjoy life’s little pleasures. An occasional small, sweet treat won’t cause any harm if you generally choose healthier food. As the saying goes, “Everything in moderation.” Remember your goals, make mindful choices, and don’t be too hard on yourself!