Check your sweet cravings

Honey and fruits are the best substitutes for sugar, but these should be had in moderation

Is it a good idea to cut out sweets from the diet completely?

Excess sugar intake affects your immune system and makes you weak, making you more prone to many diseases.

Therefore, it is best to reduce sugar intake to two teaspoons a day, or avoid it completely if possible. Eat natural sweeteners such as dates, figs, jaggery, honey and fruit in moderation if you have a sweet tooth.

Is it a myth that chocolates help when you’re depressed?

Chocolates do make you ‘feel good’, but only temporarily. This is because it has chemicals that are meant to calm your brain.

With a rise in the levels of stress, the body craves for serotonin that is found mainly in carbohydrate-concentrated foods such as potatoes, chocolates, pizzas, burgers and milk-shakes. The more sugar you eat, the more hungry you will feel. If you are stressed or crave for sweets, have 2-3 tablespoons of glucose (about 100 calories), rather than a pastry or chocolate which adds about 500-800 calories.

What are the health benefits of honey? Is it entirely fat-free?

Honey contains glucose and fructose and minerals such as magnesium, iron, calcium and B-complex vitamins. Honey is rich in antioxidants that are good for your skin, and is anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory. Though fat-free, honey is quite calorie-dense so be careful to use it in moderation.

How can I control sugar cravings?

The best way to curb sugar cravings is to avoid sugary deserts and refined foods. You could also increase your intake of water and fibre-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein. Foods that are rich in protein help keep your blood sugar in check and reduce sugar cravings.

Can fruits for breakfast substitute the requirement for sugar?

Fruits are a very good breakfast option. They provide you with the goodness of fibre, fructose and also an array of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants without you having to take in too many calories. Fruits are a healthy snacking option, too.

Is dark chocolate healthier than milk chocolate?

Dark chocolate contains more cocoa and less sugar and fat than milk chocolates. Studies have shown that darker the chocolate, the richer it is in flavonoids and antioxidants, which are heart-friendly.

This is because dark chocolate is high in copper content. Its flavoniods have antioxidant properties that help prevent high blood pressure. Dark chocolate, in general, has two to three times the amount of flavonoids found in milk chocolates.

Dark varieties also contain less fat and more cocoa. Choose a brand that has 70 per cent or more cocoa content. Weight watchers should, however, realise that even the darkest chocolate would have fat and sugar and is best eaten in moderation.
healthline@dnaindia.net