Struggling with incessant sugar cravings? Look no further – we’ve collated 4 foods fit to combat the overwhelming urge to binge on something sweet. Get your pens out and mark down these tasty snacks on your shopping list!

When we eat foods high in sugar, our brain releases feel-good hormones like dopamine, leading us to seek these foods out over and over. After getting stuck in a cycle of overdoing it on the sweet stuff, we can end up building up a tolerance, where our brain becomes less responsive to the pleasurable effects of sugar, so we may start consuming even more to chase that feeling. This can lead to a cycle of cravings, overeating and a dependence on sugar. Plus, the blood-sugar spiking on repeat can leave us with fluctuations in energy levels and mood swings. This can create a cycle of relying on sugar for quick energy boosts, followed by crashes that trigger more sugar cravings – not to mention the health risks that come with the territory, from an increased risk for obesity to type 2 diabetes, heart disease and even autoimmune conditions. That’s why we’ve compiled a few antidotes – these foods are powerhouses of nutrition which provide us with lasting energy and put a dampener on those incessant cravings.

Berries

Strawberries, blueberries and raspberries are all loaded with antioxidants and fibre, helping to slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream and giving us a hit of sweetness without that energy slump that often follows a snack of processed sugar. Plus, that fibre can help regulate blood sugar levels and keep us feeling fuller for longer. The natural sweetness of berries can help satisfy sweet cravings without the added sugars found in your typical chocolate bar. You can enjoy berries as a snack, add them to your morning oatmeal or yogurt, or blend them into a smoothie.

Nuts  

Nuts are an ideal nutrient-dense weapon against sugar addiction and it comes down to their healthy fat and protein content. These two essentials play a major role in curbing cravings and keeping us feeling fuller for longer. Roast some nuts up with paprika for a tasty snack that will boost your energy! Almonds, walnuts, pistachios and Brazil nuts are all great options – you really can’t go wrong.

Avocado

Avocado may seem like a humble fruit – yep, it’s a fruit, not a vegetable! – but it’s loaded with healthy fats, fibre and antioxidants fit to battle your strongest sugar cravings. The healthy fats in particular can help stabilise blood sugar levels and promote satiety, which can then reduce the urge to indulge in sugary treats. The versatility of avocado is one of its best traits – enjoy it in guacamole or on toast, or you might even want to try a refreshing avocado smoothie!

Greek Yoghurt

Greek yoghurt is rich in protein – as we mentioned earlier, this stuff is ideal that can be a great option to satisfy your sweet tooth without resorting to added sugars. It has a creamy texture and tangy flavour that can help curb cravings for sugary foods – especially when paired with strawberries and nuts; you’ve got yourself a delicious snack!

Here are a few more craving-busting ideas to get your inspiration flowing:

• Herbal teas like green and peppermint tea
• Cottage cheese
• Edamame beans
• Chia seeed pudding: Simply mix chia seeds with milk or water and leave it overnight for a delicious snack!
• Eggs: Try the classic IQS Poached Eggs with Hollandaise.

Need a hand getting your lifestyle goals on track? Whether you’re looking to eat healthier or fight off a sugar addiction, we’re here to help. Join us for the 8-Week Program and we’ll help you change the way you look at food – and that doesn’t mean you have to follow restrictive diets or miss out on your favourite foods; we believe you can still enjoy delicious food without jeopardising your health. With celebrity chef Sarah Glover on our panel of experts, you’ll have an array of fun recipes at your fingertips, along with our own exclusive armoury of simple, tasty and healthy recipes for everything from daily meals to impressive entertaining. We know it can be hard to stick to your health goals – especially when you’re trying to manage it alone. When you sign up with us, you’ll have access to clear-cut meal plans, community support and exclusive access to our sugar-free content. Here’s what’s on offer:

1. 8 weeks of meal plans and shopping lists.
2. 90+ member-only recipes.
3. Community forums to share your journey.
4. Support and guidance from the I Quit Sugar team.
5. Exclusive content from our panel of experts.

So, if you’re ready to ditch sugar and the host of maladies that come with it, it’s not too late to join. We’d love to help you get started on your health journey. Sign up HERE today!