Sugar Can Often Be Replaced By Healthier Alternatives

Sugar is one of the largest food addictions around. Not only does sugar taste great, it is also a common coping mechanism for people going through mental and emotional problems. Sugar triggers a response in the part of the brain responsible for rewarding a person. Unfortunately, sugar is a short-term solution to mental and emotional anguish. It also causes chronic health conditions that can be hard to overcome or lead to death. Luckily, people who have a sugar addiction can find alternatives that are both healthy and delicious. Kicking a habit takes more than self-determination. Like with any addiction, sugar withdrawal causes physical symptoms that may discourage people from getting better. On the bright side, these naturally sweet foods are healthy options that taste great at any age, which helps with the transition.

1 - Fruits

Many argue that fruit is one of nature’s many sweet treats. Unlike sugar, fruit actually boosts health and minimizes risk of adverse health conditions. Best of all, there are so many to choose from and can be prepared in a myriad of ways. For instance, a simple fruit salad can remedy a sweet tooth. Fruit can also be dehydrated and enjoyed instead of candy. For people who are on the go, they can make a smoothie or a smoothie bowl and take their breakfast with them. Common sweet fruits that are packed with vitamins and other nutrients include pineapple, apples, bananas, mangoes and grapes. Consuming up to 400 grams of fruit helps satisfy a sugar craving and still improves overall wellness. Take it up a notch by pairing it with protein like peanut butter or yogurt.

2 - Dark Chocolate

Although dark chocolate does have some sugar, it has significantly less than milk chocolate and other forms. Depending on how much cacao it has, dark chocolate can be healthy. Dark chocolate contains polyphenols. Polyphenols are organic compounds that naturally occur in plant-based products. People who get enough polyphenols have an easier time reducing blood clots, high blood pressure, and also improve brain and digestive function. Be sure to get dark chocolate with at least 70 percent cacao.

3 - Granola Bars

Granola bars are highly underrated when it comes to satisfying a sugar craving. They can be easily consumed by people in a rush. They can also contain various forms of nutrients, including vitamins and protein. It should be noted that you have to be careful about the bars you use. Many of the mass produced ones are packed with added sugars. People who don’t like commercial brand bars can make their own, which is a fun activity for parents to do with their children. Parents who have children who love sugar can add dried fruits and dark chocolate and still have a lower sugar intake than eating a popular candy bar.

4 - Dates

Dates are sweeping the health food nation, and for good reason. Not only are they sweet, they’re high in fiber. Many people blend dates into their smoothies, add them to protein bars, and eat them plain based on how naturally sweet they are. Dates pair well with many foods, so adding them to a child or adult's snack list should be a breeze.

5 - Sweet Potatoes

Obviously, these are not a first choice for a snack. However, sweet potatoes are a healthy snack that also satisfy a sweet tooth. From fries to pies, this vegetable is worth putting in the snack rotation. Sweet potatoes can also be added to brownie mix to make a healthier dessert. Consume them in moderation, especially people who have high blood pressure to avoid spikes. 

Although these foods contain naturally occurring sugar, they should be enjoyed in moderation. Some fruits are acidic and cause enamel erosion or adverse side effects when they’re overly consumed. Drinking water is a simple and healthy way to balance natural sugar levels. It's also important to eat a well-balanced diet. Oftentimes, sugar cravings are a sign of a vitamin deficiency. If possible, seek professional help from a dietitian or healthcare provider to identify any dietary missing links. Lack of enough sleep can lead to sugar cravings, so aim for at least eight hours of sleep everyday. These lifestyle changes combined with the previously mentioned foods will help keep sugar cravings in control.