Have A Sweet Tooth? Here Are 4 Ways To Nix Your Sugar Craving

It's not uncommon to have a sweet tooth every now and again, and while we're all about indulging sometimes, it's helpful to have some recipes on hand to satisfy your craving (minus an overload of sugar, artificial sweeteners, etc.). Even though cravings are unique to each person1, we consulted with Brigitte Zeitlin, registered dietitian and owner of BZ Nutrition, on what to do when we're craving sweets.

First off, Zeitlin says if you're craving something specific like your favorite ice cream or a cookie, it can be better to eat it instead of looking for alternatives that are packed with artificial flavoring, sweeteners, and chemicals. "If you're craving ice cream, having a ½ cup of the real thing is healthier and more satisfying than 2 cups of frozen yogurt," said Zeitlin. It's important to remember that eating anything with added sugar will likely contribute to more cravings down the line, so you'll want to factor that into it your choices, she explained.

If you're looking to satisfy your sweet tooth with all natural ingredients, you're in luck because it's doable and delicious. Some of her favorite ways to sweeten things up are adding fresh fruit to any meal or having it as your dessert. Instead of adding sweeteners to your cup of coffee, she recommends sprinkling some cinnamon on top to get your fix. Cinnamon is an excellent alternative to sugar, she explains, as it satisfies your craving without the dips in energy, blood sugar, and mood. You can also consider adding pure vanilla extract, about two to three drops to your yogurts, smoothies, or coffee for a touch of sweetness.

Zeitlin reinforces her philosophy that if you're craving something specific, it may be better to have it than to be too restrictive and avoid it. But if you find yourself looking for a sweet option and want to avoid sugary treats, here are some of Zeitlin's favorite snacks:

It's always best to determine whether you're craving something specific (and are OK indulging) or generally itching for a sweet treat and want to avoid the sugar. If it's the latter, consider one of these naturally sweet snacks and add in some foods that may kick the feeling down the line.