Out of sight, out of mind!
Keep tempting sugary treats out of your home or workspace. Instead, stock up on healthy snacks like nuts, seeds, and fresh fruit. If you don’t have easy access to sugary snacks, you’re less likely to indulge when a craving strikes.
Darker chocolate
If you simply can’t give up your chocolate (perfectly understandable!), go darker. Start with your usual choice of chocolate then every time you buy more go 10% darker. Try to get to 90% which contains much less sugar and has beneficial antioxidants.
You could also buy chocolate with a bit of sea salt added – it makes it taste a bit sweeter.
Get moving
Exercise is a fantastic way to boost your mood and energy levels, reducing the urge to reach for sugary snacks. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a fun dance class, or a bit of yoga, find an activity you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine.
Get enough sleep
Lack of sleep can lead to increased sugar cravings as your body looks for a quick energy boost. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to keep your energy levels balanced and reduce your cravings. Establishing a regular sleep routine can work wonders for your overall health and well-being.
Stay hydrated
Sometimes, what feels like a sugar craving might be thirst in disguise. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. If plain water feels a bit boring, choose sparkling water instead of sugary soft drinks and juice. Herbal teas are also a great way to keep your taste buds happy.
Indulge mindfully
It’s okay to enjoy a sweet treat now and then but try do it mindfully. Sit down, savour each bite, and truly enjoy the experience. This can help you feel more satisfied and less likely to overindulge. Dark chocolate, for instance, can be a great option. It’s rich and satisfying, so a little goes a long way.
DIY
Make your own salad dressings – those found in the supermarkets are usually packed with sugar.
Savvy shopping
Stick to the outside perimeter of the supermarket, where all the fresh food is found. If you avoid the processed food aisles, you are avoiding sugar laden choices. How to decode health star ratings
Don’t skip meals
Skipping meals can lead to blood sugar drops, making you more likely to reach for a sugary pick-me-up. Eating regular, balanced meals with a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs can help keep your energy levels stable and those sugar cravings at bay.
Quick tips
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Try halving the amount of sugar you use in your recipes. It works for most things except jam, meringues and ice-cream.
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Choose wholegrain breakfast cereals, but not those coated with sugar or honey. Tasty and healthy brekky ideas
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Don’t drink your fruit! While fruit is high in nutrients, it’s also high in fructose – a naturally occurring form of sugar. If you juice your fruit, you’ll consume more serves than if you were eating it whole. You’re also getting rid of the fibre which makes you feel fuller for longer.
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If you have sugar in your tea or coffee, reduce the amount of sugar you use by half a teaspoon at a time until your cuppa is sugar free.
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If you need a snack, try swapping over to yoghurt, fresh fruit, or a small handful of unsalted nuts instead of grabbing a biscuit, cake, lolly, or chocolate. The difference between complex and simple carbs
And finally, food manufacturers are really good at hiding sugar in food so here's what to look out for.
