I have always had a sweet tooth. In fact, the first way I learned that prayer works as a child was by asking God to send me chocolates through my grandmother. Lol. (And I always got them!)
Now that I’m grown and married to a man with a sweet tooth as well (with the loss of a few teeth along the way), I’ve had to find healthier alternatives for sweet cravings, not just for myself, but for my family as too. If you are looking to keep your sugar intake down but still struggle with cravings, here are some healthy options to help you stay on track.
Fruit Salads
This option is so easy because fruit salads are now easy to buy anywhere. You can also make yours with your favourite fruits as well. You get to meet your daily recommended servings of fruit while indulging your sweet tooth. Sounds like a win-win situation to me.
Yoghurt Parfaits
If you are not lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy, this could become an easy favourite for you. Instead of sweetened yoghurt chock full of sugar, plain unsweetened yoghurt and a sweet fruit of your choice like banana or pineapple sliced up into it can fix you right up.
Chocolate Covered Fruit
Most people do this with fresh strawberries. But it can work with any fruit you like really. You get to eat chocolate while getting your fruit servings. Just remember to control your portions and note that the darker the chocolate, the better the benefits.
Smoothies
Place your favourite sweet fruits in a blender or smoothie maker and go. You can add ice and a banana or dairy product like milk/yoghurt to thicken it. It’s sweet and filling so, your cravings and your hunger get sated.
Date-Sweetened Cakes and Cookies
I love to bake and eat rich, moist chocolate cake, but I know it is packed with sugar and fat. To get a fix for my sweet tooth with less guilt, I started making a healthier version every once in a while. Among other substituted ingredients, I use dates for sweetening instead of sugar. You can do the same even when making cookies.
Dried Or Candied Fruits and Veggies
Dried fruits like raisins tend to be sweeter than the fresher ones because the sugar is more concentrated after dehydration. You can get a variety to choose from with brands like Reel Fruit, among others. You can also try candied coconut, ginger, apple, or lemon slices. These are sweet and full of fibre too!
Fruit And Nut Combos
Chewing on a mix of nuts always help to satisfy cravings. From our good old banana and groundnut, to mixed bowls of cashew nuts, raisins, and apple pieces. They’re portable and full of fibre, giving you convenience, health and sweetness at the same time.
Now, you can indulge your sweet tooth without guilt. Just remember that even with the healthy stuff, moderation is key!