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I am craving sweets a lot, what should I do? (Query)

I am craving sweets a lot, what should I do? (Query)

Here's how minerals can affect your craving for desserts.

Written by Bhakti Paun Sharma |Updated : October 20, 2015 9:57 AM IST

I am experiencing a lot of craving for sweets and desserts since the past 1-2 months. I am not pregnant and have never wanted to eat sweets so badly. What can be the reason for this? Is it anything serious?

Query answered by Deepshikha Agarwal, dietitian and sports nutritionist.

You do not need to worry. Sweet cravings are not an immediate indication of any severe underlying condition. Most sugar cravings occur due to low levels of serotonin or imbalance in the blood sugar levels. Another common reason which can cause sugar cravings is low levels of zinc in the body. Though a micronutrient, zinc is very essential to build the body s defence mechanism. Here's more on why do we crave sweets?

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Zinc can affect your body in various ways. It boosts the serotonin levels in the body by converting the tryptophan (an amino acid present in foods like poultry, fish, yogurt and banana)to serotonin. Once the serotonin levels are controlled, the craving for sweets is calmed. Zinc also helps insulin in the body facilitate digestion. The body requires zinc for proper utilisation of glucose and insulin. Hence, increasing the intake of zinc rich foods like lobsters, spinach, cashews, tofu and legumes can help beat your sugar cravings. You can also consult a doctor and get examined for mineral deficiencies.

However, eating a balanced diet and foods rich in zinc can tame the craving. Every time you crave for a dessert, eat 2-3 cashews or a handful of pumpkin seeds. Follow an active lifestyle instead of a sedentary one. That way, even if you eat small doses of refined sugars, the body will be able to use them. You can also try these ways to curb your sugar cravings.

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