Many people fall prey to their sweet tooth, seeking sugary foods to feed a sugar craving. Desserts or sweet foods are okay when eaten in moderation however excessive consumption can increase blood sugar levels and over time, cause weight gain. For those looking to curb their sweet cravings, there are natural, healthier food options that can be substituted for regularly desired foods.
Frozen Foods
Ice cream is a popular treat; however, it can contain high concentrations of fat. Sorbet, frozen yogurt or frozen ice are all cold foods that can be substituted for ice cream, indicates clinical nutritionist Anne Collins on her website AnneCollins.com. Patients can make a natural lowfat frozen treat from grapes by placing the grapes in the freezer and allowing them to freeze completely. Eating one cup of frozen grapes can help to provide the same satisfaction as consuming ice cream while providing dietary fiber.
Fruits
Most types of fruit contain natural sugars that contribute to overall health. To keep caloric intake within a healthy range, patients can dip berries such as strawberries into a low calorie whipped topping. As a healthy alternative to dipping fruit in chocolate, patients can dip fruit into sugar free chocolate pudding. The key to purchasing and eating fruit is to find fruit that is in season in order to obtain optimal taste. Patients can enjoy fruit all year, regardless of season, by eating dried fruit. "Marie Claire" magazine indicates that dried apricots are naturally sweet and are a natural source of energy.
Beverages
Many patients reach for high calorie sweet beverages such as sodas or sweet coffee drinks when they have a sugar craving. By adapting the ingredients in certain beverages, patients can appease their craving and enjoy a sweetened beverage. For example, patients can enjoy sugar free hot chocolate or add a sugar free flavored syrup to a cup of black coffee. Of greatest benefit is drinking an herbal tea with 2 tbsp. of honey. Herbal teas do not contain caffeine and have no caloric value.
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