Can you eat just one cookie, one small bowl of ice cream, one brownie or piece of cake? Will the simple act of eating one small dessert derail your healthy eating goal? Will that one cookie cancel out all the healthy food choices you’ve been making? No, of course that one act will not erase all of your progress. But, will it lead to overeating?
I’m sure there are people that avoid “junk food” at all costs, but I’m not one of those people. However, I do try to limit my intake and choose healthier options a majority of the time. Sugar is addictive, so the more you have it the more you want it. Everyone is different. Only you know how consuming sugary foods effects you. Maybe you can have one cookie and that’s it, you feel satisfied and don’t feel the desire to have more. Or, maybe you’re one of those people that end up eating 10 cookies because that first one just made you crave more and more.
If you’re in the first group, one and done, great! A little dessert here and there isn’t going to be a problem. If, you’re in the other group, where one leads to too many, then you have to be more mindful and have a plan to stay on track.
Tips to limit your sugar consumption and stop overeating empty calories
- Set a reasonable amount ahead of time, walk away after you’ve reached that amount. Out of sight out of mind, right?
- Drink water and/or brush your teeth afterwards to get rid of the sugary taste in you mouth that might lead you to crave more.
- Buy individual sizes, so you only have a limited amount to begin with.
- If you don’t love it, skip it. It’s not worth triggering a sugar craving.
- Still craving sweets? Go for sweet healthier options life fruit or a small piece of dark chocolate.
I definitely have a sweet tooth, but I limit my sugar intake by being picky about what sweets I’ll eat. If dessert is offered, but it doesn’t seem like something I would really enjoy, then I skip it. I only eat it if it seems worth it to me. Most birthday cakes loaded with frosting aren’t that desirable to me, so I don’t have too hard a time passing it up. Eating something sweet that doesn’t satisfy, just leads to craving different and more sweets. If there is something that I really enjoy, then it’s worth it to have a small portion. I frequently have a square or 2 of 90% dark chocolate after dinner. I get the chocolate taste that I love with out all the added sugar. Plus, it contains antioxidants giving me some benefits, not just empty calories.
If you have a sweet tooth like me, let me know how you take control.
