Holidays. Birthdays. Celebrations. What do they all usually have in common? Sweets and treats… and temptation!
If you already have a gnarly sweet tooth, then these circumstances are likely full of pitfalls if you are not properly prepared. Craving sweets is not necessarily a bad thing and may be a signal from our bodies that we are in need of a quick energy source. The problem is the types and amounts of sweets that are typically consumed are part of the Standard American Diet, so aptly referred to as SAD.
Highly processed, sugar-laden snacks are high in calories, low in nutrition, pro-inflammatory and extremely addictive! Ever notice how hard it is to only eat the suggested serving size? And once you have had one treat, how long does it take before you are craving another?
The following tips will satisfy your body’s need for energy, as well as your desire for a sweet taste, all the while keeping you on a healthy track!
1. Drink fruit-infused water. 70% of us are walking around dehydrated and thirst is often mistaken for hunger. Drinking fruit infused water will prevent dehydration while giving you a hint of sweetness to boot!
2. Increase your intake of healthy fats. If you are low on energy, then healthy fats like avocado, coconut oil, almonds and olives will provide energy and aid your body in burning fat at the same time. Be careful of the portions though and stick to one serving at a time. Appropriate serving sizes are ¼-½ avocado, 1 TBS of coconut oil, 1 oz of almonds (approximately 1 handful) and 10 medium olives.
3. Have a protein shake sweetened with stevia. Consuming protein shakes helps to combat cravings by making you feel full and increasing the levels feel-good chemicals in your brain. There are lots of good options out there and they come in some pretty awesome flavors. Two of my favorites are True Nutrition’s Chocolate Fudge Brownie and Vanilla Cake Batter. Add a serving of fruit, a handful of mild greens (like spinach or romaine) and a little cinnamon and BAM! You have a cup of decadence that will satisfy your sweet tooth and is great for pre-or post workout.
4. Get creative with sweet potatoes. There are lots of healthy ways to enjoy these tubers: baked as fries, dehydrated as chips, roasted whole or as a mash. The natural sugars in sweet potatoes are paired with vitamins (A, B-5 and B-6) and fiber, making them a healthy treat when eaten in the proper (1 cup) portions.
5. Have a piece of dark chocolate. If you are a chocolate lover like me, this should probably have been your first tip. Dark chocolate is higher in cocoa content, which leaves less room for sugar. It is also high in antioxidants and flavonoids. If you are new to dark chocolate, start with anything over 70% cocoa then you can work your way up to 85-90%.
TIP: Remember to watch the serving sizes on all fruits, fats, starches and dark chocolate. Even healthy upgrades need to be enjoyed responsibly.
BONUS RECIPES
About the AuthorAngela Billups is a holistic health coach, advanced practice nurse, writer, blogger, passionate home cook and founder of Livity Wellness Solutions L.L.C., a health coaching company that uses nutrition and holistic wellness as a means of achieving balance in life. She is also a Certified Fitlife Coach and Small Group Coaching mentor who after working 18 years in healthcare as a physical therapist, registered nurse and nurse anesthetist has fully embraced her love of nutrition and wellness and their role in overall health and vitality. Drawing from the experiences of her own transformation, her mission is to help as many people as possible to improve their own health and happiness in order to be the most authentic versions of themselves. For more information about Fitlife Small Group Coaching or general health coaching questions, you can connect with Angela:Website, Blog, Email
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Disclaimer: The techniques, strategies, and suggestions expressed here are intended to be used for educational purposes only. The author, Drew Canole, and the associated www.fitlife.tv are not rendering medical advice, nor to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any disease, condition, illness, or injury. It is imperative that before beginning any nutrition or exercise program you receive full medical clearance from a licensed physician. Drew Canole and Fitlife.tv claim no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the material presented here.
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Glenn was in an accident with a hockey puck that made it so his mouth had to be wired shut! While he was going through recovery he found that Organifi Protein sustained him in a healthy way where he was able to maintain his muscle mass while still be able to loose weight.
-Tragedy Turns to Opportunity, Weightloss and Holistic Health
Glenn was in an accident with a hockey puck that made it so his mouth had to be wired shut! While he was going through recovery he found that Organifi Protein sustained him in a healthy way where he was able to maintain his muscle mass while still be able to loose weight.
-Tragedy Turns to Opportunity, Weightloss and Holistic Health
