How to Control Sugar Cravings during post-pregnancy?

Trying to lose your post-pregnancy weight but sugar cravings holding you down? Don’t worry. First of all, you are not alone; many women go through this. Secondly, it is perfectly possible for you to manage your sugar cravings for a healthy lifestyle and diet. Here’s how.

1. Understand the triggers for your sugar cravings

Knowing what can cause sugar cravings will prepare you better to deal with them. Some of the reasons could be:

• after a high-intensity workout,
• irregular sleep cycles,
• skipping meals,
• stress,
• a diet that is low on nutrition,
• your brain is addicted to sugar triggering frequent cravings, etc

2. Keep yourself well-hydrated

Sugar cravings are sometimes a result of you being thirsty, but the brain signals you to have something sugary. You might find that drinking a glass of water can help curb the cravings. Also, drinking enough water throughout the day can keep your physiological processes functioning well and can also help prevent hormonal imbalances which can cause the cravings.

3. Increase fiber in the diet

Image source: Michael Kummer

Fiber passes through your gut and intestines without being processed. It also slows down the absorption of sugar and other foods, making sure you feel fuller for longer. This helps lessen your sugar cravings. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet is also associated with reduced risks of cancer, obesity, and cardiovascular disorders.

4. Say goodbye to artificial sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are not really an answer to curb your cravings. In fact, with regular use of artificial sugar, your sugar cravings can actually go up. Also, some studies have revealed that artificial sweeteners can even lead to weight gain. Also, as breastfeeding mothers, artificial sweeteners are not recommended. Hence, it is best to completely avoid them in your diet.

5. Include lean protein in your diet


Image source: Spartan Life

Lean protein is great for your body. Your body requires protein and lean protein provides that with less fat, making it the ideal protein. Including salmon, chicken, etc. in your meals can help you feel satiated and fuller for a longer time. This manages your blood sugar levels well and helps fight sugar cravings.

6. Have regular meal times

We understand that as a new mum, your meal schedules can be irregular. But, know that skipped meals can make you very hungry, to which your body can respond with a sugar craving. Thus, try to stick to your meal times as much as possible. Also, keep healthy snacks such as carrots, celery, sugar-less granola bars handy for snacking between meals.

7. Be active

Being active is good for your body. It helps manage stress and improves metabolism. Regular exercise coupled with a healthy diet can go a long way in reducing sugar cravings and helping you maintain a healthier lifestyle.

8. Choose healthy over sugary

Even when you do all of the above, there is a chance that your body will still crave for something sweet. The best way to deal with this is to consciously choose to eat something healthy instead of reaching for a sugary treat. For example, a handful of nuts such as almonds, cashews, and walnuts can help curb immediate sugar cravings. Using honey, raisins, and dates to naturally sweeten your food is a much better option to sugar. Including fruits, which contain natural, healthy sugar, is also great for managing cravings.  

In addition to all this, try not to worry too much about your sugar intake and the associated weight gain. Stress leads to increased sugar cravings and it becomes a vicious cycle of weight gain, stress, and sugar cravings. Talk to someone you trust about your cravings and take their help when you have an irresistible urge to have a sweet. Being accountable for what you eat helps manage your diet. Be positive that you will be able to overcome the cravings and embrace a healthier diet.

Are you enjoying this post?

Feel free to share this with any mums. Join the mums community today and receive weekly motherhood tips and tricks directly to your inbox. Occasionally we will send you updates on new launches and exclusive events, and you will always be the first to know.

Shop Lovemère collection today.