Sugar cravings can hit anyone and anywhere. As we are all aware, the keto diet is a low-carb and high-fat diet. There is also the elimination of refined sugar from the diet. It doesn’t mean, however, that desserts are no longer part of our daily diet. While it’s perfectly normal to crave sweets. First, let’s see why this happens:
Sugar cravings can be triggered by metabolic factors or psychological factors as well.
Metabolic sugar cravings occur when your body and brain feel low in energy. This happens normally to people new to the keto diet. When you are on a low-carb diet, blood glucose levels dip, and your body is not adapted to the new source of energy. So craving sugar-rich food to replenish glucose levels in the blood happens. Also, because of stress or extra physical activity, it may occur.
Psychological reasons, on the other hand, have nothing to do with our bodies’ needs. They are more likely to occur because of habits or addiction to high-sugar foods.
How to satisfy your sugar cravings while following the keto diet.
Let’s have a look at sweet treats and foods to curb our sugar cravings.
Healthy fruits contain natural sweeteners, antioxidants, and micronutrients. As we know some fruits are rich in sugar like bananas, and mangoes so eat them in moderation as they can easily throw you out of ketosis. On the other hand, some fruits are low in carbs.
Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries offer the appropriate level of sweetness when blended and can be taken as a smoothie, a healthy dessert.
Dark chocolate is an ideal food to eat when you have a sugar craving. Dark chocolates are rich in fiber and minerals, making them healthy.
Granola isone of the staples that can curb sugar cravings.
Water-sugar cravings might be caused by dehydration. So give it a try and drink a glass of water.
Coffee: Have a cup of coffee with a keto-friendly sweetener like stevia.
Smoothies: Drink homemade smoothies and avoid store-purchased smoothies as they may be rich in sugar.
You can also try keto-friendly recipes in addition to the above. With the right ingredients and the right recipes, one can make delicious keto-friendly desserts at home.