In many cultures around the world, including India, eating something sweet after a meal has become a common tradition. From homemade desserts to store-bought treats, the craving for sweetness is hard to resist. But do you know indulging in sugary treats regularly can have adverse effects on our health? Fortunately, there are healthier alternatives that can satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your well-being. Let's delve into the reasons behind sweet cravings after a meal according to ayurveda and explore five healthy options to indulge in.
Why Sweet Cravings Happen After A Meal According To Ayurveda?
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers insights into the reasons behind post-meal sweet cravings. According to ayurvedic principles, the six tastes – sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, and astringent, – play a crucial role in maintaining balance in our bodies. As per Dietician Priya Bansal, MSc Nutrition, formerly worked at Apollo Hospital, Delhi, "A meal that lacks the sweet taste may leave our taste buds unsatisfied, leading to cravings for something sweet." she said that a meal that is heavy, oily, or spicy can create an imbalance in the body, causing a desire for the opposite taste – sweet – to restore equilibrium.
Can Eating Sweets After A Meal Make You Fat?
Foods high in added sugars are often calorie-dense and lack essential nutrients. They can lead to an energy imbalance, where you consume more calories than you burn, resulting in weight gain over time. According to a study published by the University of Iowa Health Care, an unregulated ‘"sweet tooth’" can lead to overconsumption of sugary foods and chronic health conditions, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. It's important to be mindful of your sweet consumption and explore healthier alternatives.
Also Read: Why Do We Crave Sugar? Celebrity Nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar Reveals 3 Step Guide To Curb It
5 Healthy Sugary Treats Options To Indulge In
1) Jaggery
A traditional sweetener in India, jaggery is a healthier alternative to refined sugar. It is made from sugarcane juice and retains essential minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium. Bansal advised eating a small piece of jaggery after a meal to satisfy your sweet cravings.
2) Dark Chocolate
Bansal stated that opt for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or more) as it contains less sugar and higher amounts of antioxidants. Dark chocolate can help satisfy your sweet tooth while providing potential health benefits such as improved heart health and reduced inflammation.
3) Fresh Fruits
Nature's sweet treats, fresh fruits are an excellent choice for satisfying your sweet cravings. Fruits like berries, mangoes, and apples offer natural sugars, fibre, and a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Enjoy a bowl of mixed fruits or a fruit salad after your meal.
Also Read: Why Do We Crave Sugar? Celebrity Nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar Reveals 3 Step Guide To Curb It
4) Yogurt With Honey
Bansal said that Greek yoghurt topped with a drizzle of honey can create a delicious and healthy sweet treat. Yoghurt is packed with probiotics, which promote gut health, while honey adds natural sweetness and antioxidants.
5) Date-based Desserts
Dates are a natural sweetener and can be used as a healthier alternative in desserts. You can make energy balls or blend dates with nuts to create a delightful guilt-free sweet treat.
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided by a registered medical practitioner. However, we recommend you consult your healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment.]