Healthy Flavors to Satisfy Any Sweet Tooth
Many consumers have a hankering for something sweet after meals or a sugary pick-me-up during a busy afternoon. A study published in June 2017 in Appetite found that 86% of people who had food cravings thought about high-calorie foods — specifically, those containing chocolate. And while an occasional cupcake, cookie, or piece of candy can be a well-deserved treat, too much of these calorie dense foods can often derail fitness and lifestyle goals. Fortunately, natural, nutrient-rich foods, healthy foods can help to curb unhealthy cravings and help consumers to eat junk food in moderation. Join us as we at Advanced Biotech explore some of our favorite natural flavors that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Fruit
When sugar cravings hit, many people reach for high-fat, high-sugar foods that are often deficient in nutrients necessary to keep us full. Swapping junk food for fruit is a healthy way satisfy sugar cravings while avoiding processed flavors and artificial chemicals that are harmful to the body and to wellness goals. Fruit is naturally sweet but also contains a significant amount of fiber, essential nutrients, as well as health benefits. Fruits that are slightly higher in natural sugars like grapes and mango are sure to satisfy sugar cravings and prevent over-consumption. Berries are also an excellent choice as they are high in fiber and low in sugar, and are often rich in helpful antioxidants and are anti-inflammatory. Use fruits and berries to create satisfying smoothies, freeze into ice pops as an alternative to ice cream, or simply wash and enjoy fresh in place of snack foods like popcorn and potato chips.
Dark Chocolate
Chocolate is often the food people crave most when they are looking for something sweet. Rich, creamy, and decadent, chocolate is every sweet tooth’s dream and can luckily be substituted for a very similar yet much healthier alternative! Dark chocolate contains more than 70% cocoa as well as healthy plant compounds known as polyphenols. Studies have shown that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of these polyphenols may help improve heart health. Slightly bitter dark chocolate pairs well with tangy raspberries, vibrant oranges, and nutty almonds and can be sprinkled with flaky sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor sensation.
Vegetables
While vegetables may not be the most satisfying thing to eat during a sugar craving. Rich in vitamins and other essential nutrients, vitamins are low in calories but high in fiber, keeping the stomach fuller for longer and allowing for endless snacking. Adding vegetables to meals is a great way to add volume without adding calories, creating more satisfying meals with added health benefits. Precutting and storing vegetables like carrots, celery, and cucumbers makes grabbing for these healthier options more convenient and habit forming. Pair vegetables with low-calorie dressings, dips, and even peanut butter to create unique and exciting flavor combinations.
While everything is fine in moderation and there is never reason to feel guilty about indulging, keeping a balanced diet full of foods with natural health benefits is the key to maintaining a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. Swapping out processed junk foods filled with chemicals for wholesome, nutritious, and naturally sweet foods will keep consumers on the right path to long-term health.