6 Nigerian Foods That Can Fight Sugar Cravings

Sugar cravings have been known to be responsible for binge-eating and overeating, which in most cases leads to overweight and obesity if prolonged.

Usually, when you experience sugar cravings, there’s always a need to just take in something sweet, which ends up resulting in consuming excess calories (the beginning of weight and health issues).

The good news, however, is that there are a few Nigerian foods you can use to fight our sugar cravings every now and then.

1. Fruits

Usually, when you crave for sugar, you probably reach out for chocolate, ice cream, cake and the likes. The problem, however with these things is that it increases your sugar cravings.

Opting for fruits (either as a smoothie or as whole fruits) in place of these other sugary foods will not only satisfy your cravings but also stop further cravings.

The good thing about fruit is that, not only is it sweet, but it’s also healthy and nutritious because it contains a lot of good nutrients that are beneficial to the body.

ALSO READ: Sugar Rush: How Much Sugar Should You Take Daily?

2. Dark Chocolate

Rather than going for the option of just any chocolate when you crave for sugar, how about going for healthy chocolates (Dark chocolates)?

Dark chocolates contain more than 70% cocoa as well as some other healthy plant compounds known as polyphenols.

Some studies have shown that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of these polyphenols may help improve markers of heart health.

However, like every other thing, taking it in moderation is key because it also contains some sugar and fat content.

3. Yogurt

Yogurt is a healthy snack high in protein and also rich in calcium, which can help you control your appetite and cravings.

According to one study, healthy-weight women who had high-protein Greek yogurt for an afternoon snack were less hungry and ate less later in the day, compared to those who had a lower-protein snack or no snack at all.

4. Sweet Potatoes

Although it contains mostly carbs and some fiber content and a number of vitamins and minerals, like vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, Including sweet potato in your diet which can help you combat your cravings for sugar as they are nutritious, sweet and very filling isn’t a bad idea when it comes to fighting sugar craving.

5. Chicken

Sometimes, people crave for sugar because they aren’t eating enough throughout the day.

Chicken, which is another protein-rich food, can help you stay fuller longer than carbs do, helping you curb overeating and unnecessary sugar cravings.

6. Nuts for sugar cravings

A good number of nuts are loaded with fiber, healthy fats and other healthy nutrients like vitamins and the likes which help lower blood sugar levels and reduce blood pressure.

Asides from consciously making efforts to eat healthily, keeping one or two of these healthy snacks close by will definitely help, not only with your cravings for sugar but also help your healthy eating habit.