Craving sugar? Resort to these healthy substitutes to avoid an unhealthy binge

While sugar may be satisfying to the taste buds and the soul, it is not that great for your health. A sugar binge is followed by constant spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels which can further lead to fatigue, irritability, and anxious thoughts. According to a 2016 study, consuming too much can increase the risk for obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, cognitive decline, and also certain types of cancer.

The good news, however, is that there are many healthy substitutes that can satisfy your intense sugar cravings. But first, it is important to know what causes such intense sugar cravings. 

Multiple factors can heighten your sugar cravings. These include dehydration, poor diet quality, stress, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies. 

Here are some healthy substitutes to satiate extreme sugar cravings. 

Berries 

Blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries are some of the best foods to consume when you are having extreme sugar cravings. They are all low-glycemic fruits and provide plenty of sweetness without spiking blood sugar.

Pistachios

This superfood is filled with the richness of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. In fact, most of these nuts are great choices to curb sugar cravings. According to a study published in 2020, eating pistachios has been associated with a decrease in consumption of sweets, as well as weight loss in adults.

Oats

Oats happen to be a great source of soluble fiber as they help stave off hunger. Oats also help in lowering glucose levels and curb sugar cravings. However, instant oatmeal packets should be avoided as they are highly processed and high in added sugars.

Dark chocolate 

If reports are to be believed, chocolates are one of the most commonly reported foods people eat when they have sugar cravings. However, if you want to make a healthy choice, just switch to dark chocolate. It contains more than 70% cocoa and healthy plant compounds.