If you regularly find yourself reaching for the cookie jar when dreaded 3:30itis hits, we can help you get those sugar cravings under control. Check out these 4 ways to deal with sugar cravings. 

1. Keep your blood sugar stabilised 

Keep your blood sugar stabilised by eating foods with a low GI (glycemic index). These foods both absorb and release energy slowly to keep your blood sugar levels stable, so you won’t experience those dreaded spikes and dips that leave you reaching for the lolly jar. Pack your diet full of low GI foods including: sweet potato, brown rice, oats, banana, lentils, yoghurt and quinoa. 

2. Exercise regularly 

Exercise is a natural way to release dopamine, the feel good chemical in the brain that’s also released after eating sugar. Regular exercise will positively impact and regulate your dopamine naturally, so you don’t have to rely on sugar to get a hit. Aim for at least 30-minutes a day. 

3. Get enough sleep 

Lack of sleep doesn’t just have a detrimental effect on our moods, but it can also wreak havoc on our diets too. Not clocking adequate sleep throws out certain hormones in the body, which may stimulate your appetite and trigger cravings for energy dense foods like sugary sweets. 

4. Find healthier alternatives 

While a bit of sugar is fine in moderation, if you’re reaching for the ice-cream every night, try looking for some healthier alternatives that also offer some nutritional value. Try banana slices with peanut butter, a few pieces of dark chocolate (cacao content of higher than 70%) or some greek yoghurt and berries.