How to curb those sugar cravings
Often new mums crave sugar more than before their baby, here are our tips to curb it
There are a number of reasons you could be craving sugar more than you ever did before you were pregnant.
Breastfeeding can affect your brain activity due to your baby's need for milk. Certain foods may cause a chemical reaction in the body that increases your desire for them, one being sugar. Breastfeeding gives much of your body’s nutrients to your baby which can leave you feeling lacking and subsequently craving sugar as a quick fix.
Also don’t overlook that the lack of sleep will take its toll on you and like breastfeeding, can leave you feeling drained and naturally crave a quick fix of sugar to revive your energy.
Here are some top tips to curb those sugar cravings and replace them with something more substantial for you.
Have a good breakfast
Balancing your sugar levels first thing in the morning is a good way to stave off those sugar cravings. Try and include some protein, fats and healthy carbohydrates in your breakfast even if you’re not a big breakfast eater, a smaller amount will still help.
Glug plenty of water
Drinking water is so good for you for so many reasons, but can help curb those sugar cravings by flushing your body out of toxins to avoid retaining water. It will make you feel more full which in turn you’ll be less inclined to reach for sugary snacks. It’s advised to drink at least 1.5-2 litres of water per day.
If you’re not a fan of plain water you can jazz it up with some fresh lemon or drink spice and herbal teas or green tea as they all count too.
Increase the protein in your diet
Protein can help energise you and stabilise your blood sugar so eating plenty in your daily diet can help curb those sugar cravings. Great sources of protein include nuts, seeds, pulses, beans (hummus), eggs, natural or Greek style yoghurt, cottage cheese, fish, tofu and lean meats. Protein rich foods help you feel fuller for longer which prevent you craving sugar.
Low on vitamins
Sugar cravings can be a result of being low in vitamins which is common in new mums due to lack of sleep and adjusting to be a new parent, so consider taking a multivitamin to keep your vitamin levels high.
Add a pinch of spice
Trick your body into thinking it’s having something sweet by adding spices to your food. Coriander, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and cardamon offer a natural sweetness to your food which can help curb those cravings.