Keto Tip of the Day: How to Control Your Sweet Tooth

If you’re following a keto diet, you know that sugar is a big no-no. But what if you have a sweet tooth that won’t quit? How can you satisfy your cravings without sabotaging your ketosis? Here are some tips to help you control your sweet tooth on keto:

• Choose natural sweeteners. Instead of using sugar or artificial sweeteners, opt for natural ones that have little or no impact on your blood sugar and insulin levels. Some examples are stevia, monk fruit, erythritol, and xylitol. You can use them to sweeten your coffee, tea, smoothies, or keto desserts.
• Eat more healthy fats. Fat is your friend on keto, as it helps you feel full and satisfied. Eating more healthy fats can also curb your appetite and reduce your cravings for sweets. Some good sources of healthy fats are avocado, nuts, seeds, coconut oil, butter, ghee, and olive oil.
• Drink plenty of water. Sometimes, thirst can be mistaken for hunger or cravings. Staying hydrated can help you flush out toxins, regulate your metabolism, and prevent dehydration headaches. Water can also help you feel fuller and suppress your appetite. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, and add some lemon or cucumber slices for extra flavor and electrolytes.
• Snack smartly. If you feel like snacking between meals, choose keto-friendly options that are low in carbs and high in protein and fiber. These can help you balance your blood sugar and keep you from overeating later. Some examples are cheese, nuts, seeds, jerky, hard-boiled eggs, celery sticks with peanut butter, or dark chocolate (at least 85% cacao).
• Treat yourself occasionally. Being too strict with yourself can backfire and lead to bingeing or giving up on keto altogether. It’s okay to indulge in a keto-friendly dessert once in a while, as long as you don’t go overboard and stay within your macros. You can also make your own keto desserts using almond flour, coconut flour, cream cheese, heavy cream, and natural sweeteners. There are plenty of recipes online for keto cakes, cookies, brownies, cheesecakes, ice cream, and more.

Remember that controlling your sweet tooth is not only good for your keto diet but also for your overall health. Sugar can cause inflammation, weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, and other problems. By following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of keto without sacrificing your sweet tooth.