Sweet Treat Satisfiers

Candies, cookies or cakes. We all have a sweet craving every once in a while. Special diets or lifestyles can keep us from enjoying those items when we’re craving a sugary confection. However, we aren’t doomed to walk past a bakery or candy jar without getting some level of satisfaction. It’s possible to satisfy your cravings for sweets if you’re trying to cut back on the calories or are maintaining your blood sugar. Here are some tips to satisfy the cravings without derailing:

• Exchange other carbs for a small portion size of dessert: Because most desserts contain many calories and carbohydrates, it’s important to choose a small portion size. The American Diabetes Association notes that you can exchange a serving of sweet potatoes or a dinner roll for a small serving of dessert. Pudding and Jell-O can be bought in single serving packs in fat-free and sugar-free varieties.
• Make a dessert yourself: Remember to eat small portion sizes and note the amount of carbohydrates. Find dessert recipes from the American Diabetes Association’s Recipes for Healthy Living.
• Choose certain fruits for dessert and watch your portion size: Fruits have fiber, minerals and vitamins, but some fruits have a high amount of carbohydrates. Other fruits have lower sugar content, such as berries. Try frozen fruits for a cool treat during the summer months.
• Other homemade frozen indulgences: Buy a variety of Greek yogurt that you like. Insert a popsicle stick and place in a freezer for a yogurt pop later in the day. Frozen bananas can be pureed for a low-calorie, low-sugar version of soft serve. 

A little planning and creativity can help you discover a variety of different sweet treat options when the craving strikes. 

For more information about how to stay on track, speak with your primary care physician or a nutritionist. If you are someone with diabetes, talk to your physician about getting a referral to our Diabetes Education program or for more information call us at (855) 404-3339.