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7. 5 ways to effectively curb sugar craving during the festive season

With the festive season around the corner, most of us can’t wait to gorge on the festive delicacies. From greasy fries like pakodas, to high carb foods such as Sabudana (Tapioca Sago), to our favourite assortments of sweets and namkeens, it’s always a challenge to stay fit this season.   Founder & Director at Gaia, Dolly Kumar – an eminent entrepreneur and a health and wellness expert shares 5 ways to cut down on sugar this festive season. Something that contributes to a lot of weight gain is Sugar. When we consume high amounts of artificial sugar, the sugar gets converted into fat by our liver instantly. What’s worse is that artificial sugar is extremely addictive and it’s difficult to stop or reduce intake post-festive season when we have already developed a habit.         Here are five ways to cut down on sugar this festive season to maintain optimal health: Switch to Natural Sweeteners Add natural sweeteners such as multiflora Honey or Stevia - a plant-based natural sweetener. Both honey and stevia are sweeter than sugar and has much lower calories. Honey and Stevia also help in reducing toxin build-up in the liver and boosts digestion. Cinnamon Can’t give up on your morning cuppa without sugar? Well, add Cinnamon instead. Cinnamon is both sweet and low-calorie. Additionally, it has powerful anti-oxidants and provides many health benefits like lowering blood sugar levels and protecting heart health. Say No to Packed Juice Most packed juices contain low fibre and are high in fructose (a carbohydrate that causes weight gain). Instead, eat whole fruits and switch to fresh lemonade or coconut water that has lesser calories and ample health benefits. Use Natural Immunity Boosters What’s the best natural immunity booster? Of course, Neem! Neem capsules have anti-bacterial, antifungal and blood purifying properties. It helps prevent skin problems and keeps your skin healthy and glowing. Switch to Healthier Snacks To further reduce sugar intake, switch your favourite munching snacks to low sugar alternatives. If you are a cookie love – switch to multigrain or oatmeal variants that have low sugar, high protein and high fibre that helps improve digestion.