Have you ever punished yourself after overindulging in sweet treats? That’s the worst thing you can do after overindulging. Starving yourself or doing long cardio will only increase your chances of overindulging again.
Your first step after overindulging should be to normalize your blood sugar. When you eat sweets, your body releases dopamine, which makes you feel good. A not-so-positive effect is the skyrocketing of your blood sugar levels.
After a few minutes or hours (depending on the person) blood sugar levels quickly fall, leading to low energy levels and a bad mood. Post-sugar crash, you may feel the urge to eat sugary foods to boost your energy again. Don’t fall into that trap. Instead, use the strategies below to normalize your blood sugar levels.
1. DON’T STARVE YOURSELF.
The guilt of overindulging makes some people want to starve themselves. Unfortunately, this only keeps your blood sugar levels unbalanced and increases cravings. Eating healthy foods after a binge will regulate your blood sugar and boost your mood.
2. EAT NUTS OR PEANUT BUTTER.
A handful of nuts or a spoonful of peanut butter will give you good amounts of fats and protein and boost your energy without spiking your blood sugar. In fact, research shows that tree nuts help control blood sugar and manage weight.
A slice of avocado is also a good option, as is hummus with vegetables. Avoid high-carb foods that may spike your blood sugar again.
3. DRINK TWO GLASSES OF WATER.
Water may be the last thing on your mind when your blood sugar drops. You’ll probably want to drink coffee and other caffeinated drinks, but such drinks will only give you a short-lived buzz. Drinking two glasses of water will boost your energy and make you feel full.
4. GET RID OF THE LEFTOVERS.
Throwing away the leftovers is a sure way to prevent another blood sugar spike. Studies show that seeing junk food increases the chances of overindulging.
Some experts recommend simply keeping junk food out of sight, but that doesn’t seem to stop most people from overindulging when the cravings kick in.
5. DO A LIGHT WORKOUT.
Don’t lie on the couch feeling sorry for yourself or exercise too hard trying to undo the effects of a sugar binge. Instead, do a light stairs workout or go for short, brisk walk.
More isn’t always better. One study found that adults who walked for 15 minutes after meals had lower blood sugar levels compared to those who walked for 45 minutes.
6. DRINK A HEALTHY SMOOTHIE.
Smoothies are loaded with fiber and nutrients that can curb your sugar cravings. Avoid adding too much fruit, because it can spike your blood sugar.
Feel free to sprinkle cinnamon into your smoothie. It may help regulate your blood sugar, according to some studies.
7. MAINTAIN YOUR REGULAR EATING SCHEDULE.
Eat at around the same time you would usually eat, since skipping meals keeps blood sugar levels unbalanced. Now, you don’t have to eat the same amount of food you usually eat. Just take a few bites, if you feel full.
Your meal should have protein, healthy fats and complex carbs. Stay away from simple and processed carbs.
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