Sugar cravings are when you experience a strong urge to eat something sweet and find it difficult to control yourself. Do you often find yourself in the middle of it? If yes, then there are certain foods and beverages, such as fruit, yoghurt, sweet potatoes, and smoothies, that may reduce your cravings. Foods that contain whole grains, fibre, and protein may also keep you feeling fuller longer.

Fruit

When craving sugar, swapping junk food for fruit can provide a sweet hit while offering numerous health benefits. Fruits are naturally sweet and rich in fiber and plant compounds, which are linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and certain cancers. They also support sustainable weight management and mental well-being. For a more satisfying snack, opt for fruits with higher sugar content, like mangoes or grapes, or add fruit to yogurt.

Berries

Berries are a great choice for curbing sugar cravings due to their sweetness and high fiber content. This combination helps keep you full longer, making them an excellent option for habit-driven cravings. Berries also offer powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

Dark Chocolate

If you're craving chocolate, dark chocolate is a healthier alternative. It contains polyphenols, plant compounds that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits for heart and cognitive health. Compared to milk chocolate, dark chocolate has less sugar and offers more polyphenols. However, it’s best to consume it in moderation.

Snack Bars

Not all snack bars are healthy, but there are low-sugar options available. Choose bars made with whole foods like oats, fresh or dried fruit, and avoid those with added sugars like honey or agave syrup. Alternatively, you can make your own healthy snack bars at home.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and plant compounds. The soluble fiber in chia absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance that promotes fullness, potentially preventing sugar cravings. You can also use chia seeds to make a nutritious dessert like chia pudding.

Sugar-Free Chewing Gum or Mints

Sugar-free gum or mints, sweetened with artificial sweeteners, provide a sweet taste without added calories. Studies suggest that chewing gum may help control hunger and sugar cravings. Plus, it’s beneficial for oral health, potentially reducing the risk of cavities.

Lentils

Lentils are an excellent source of fiber and protein, with one cup providing 18g of protein and 15.5g of fiber. These nutrients increase feelings of fullness, which can help reduce hunger-driven sugar cravings. Lentils also aid in weight management and support healthy blood sugar levels.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a protein-rich, calcium-packed snack that may help reduce sugar cravings and regulate blood sugar levels. Opt for yogurt that contains live cultures and no added sugar to maximize its benefits.

Dates

Despite being high in sugar, dates are packed with nutrients and may help curb sugar cravings. Studies show that consuming dates daily can improve cholesterol levels and quality of life without raising blood sugar significantly. Pair dates with nuts like almonds for a sweet and crunchy treat.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and filling, making them a satisfying choice when craving sugar. They’re rich in fiber and various vitamins and minerals. Including sweet potatoes in your meals can balance your diet and prevent sugar cravings.

Meat, Poultry, and Fish

Including protein-rich foods like meat, poultry, or fish in your meals can help prevent sugar cravings. Protein suppresses hunger and regulates food intake, which may be especially helpful for weight management.

Smoothies

Smoothies made with fruit and yogurt can be a nutritious way to satisfy a sweet craving. Combining fruit’s natural sweetness with the filling properties of yogurt provides essential nutrients while curbing sugar cravings. Be sure to use whole fruits to retain fiber.

Sugar-Free Soda

Switching to sugar-free soda can help satisfy cravings for sugary beverages without the added sugar and calories. This can be a good alternative if you’re trying to reduce your intake of sugary drinks while still indulging in something sweet.

Prunes

Prunes, or dried plums, are high in fiber and naturally sweet, making them a great alternative to candy. They also help relieve constipation due to their fiber content and the sorbitol, a sugar alcohol, they contain.

Eggs

Eggs are a high-protein food that can keep you feeling fuller for longer. A protein-rich breakfast like eggs may suppress hunger hormones and reduce the urge to snack throughout the day, helping manage sugar cravings.

Trail Mix

Trail mix, often made with dried fruits and nuts, can be a satisfying sweet snack. The dried fruit helps curb cravings, and nuts provide healthy fats and protein. However, trail mix can be calorie-dense, so stick to a small serving size.

Fermented Foods

Fermented foods like kimchi, kombucha, and sauerkraut are beneficial for gut health. The probiotics in these foods can influence hunger and cravings, potentially helping to prevent sugar cravings by promoting a balanced gut microbiome.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are high in fibre and rich in essential nutrients, including B vitamins and minerals like magnesium and selenium. Consuming whole grains can help increase fullness and reduce the frequency of sugar cravings while also supporting gut health.

Vegetables

Vegetables are high in fibre, low in calories, and rich in essential nutrients. Regular consumption of vegetables can improve overall health and help you feel more satisfied throughout the day, potentially reducing sugar cravings.

Your plate holds more power than you think. In a world overwhelmed by chronic conditions like PCOS, diabetes, and high blood pressure, the answer to feeling better may not lie in a prescription, but in the everyday meals we choose. As science increasingly affirms what traditional wisdom has long upheld, food isn’t just fuel, it’s one of the most effective tools we have for healing. Whether you're trying to balance hormones, manage blood sugar, or keep your blood pressure in check, eating with intention can dramatically shift the course of your health. And it starts with understanding that your next meal could be part of your medicine cabinet.

As chronic conditions like PCOS, diabetes, and high blood pressure become increasingly common in today’s fast-paced world, there is growing global interest in a therapeutic approach to eating—what experts call “food as medicine.” Modern nutritional science is now affirming age-old wisdom: the way we eat can have a profound impact on how we manage chronic health disorders. While medication and lifestyle changes are essential, food when chosen wisely—can serve as a powerful tool for healing, prevention, and long-term wellness.

We spoke to Manvi Agnihotri, Nutritionist, Health Expert, who emphasized the growing relevance of dietary strategies in addressing these common lifestyle disorders. “Food doesn’t just feed the body,” she said. “It helps recalibrate imbalances, support metabolic function, and even reverse the course of disease when paired with consistency and intention.”

Managing PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition marked by irregular menstrual cycles, insulin resistance, and inflammation. While the root causes vary, nutrition plays a foundational role in managing symptoms and supporting hormonal equilibrium.

Agnihotri highlights the importance of a low-glycemic index (GI) diet for women with PCOS. “Opting for foods that don’t cause sudden spikes in blood sugar can make a marked difference. Think whole grains like oats and quinoa, lentils, leafy greens, and good fats like avocado and nuts,” she says. These foods help regulate insulin levels, which are often elevated in PCOS patients and can worsen symptoms.

Equally important is avoiding inflammatory triggers. “Sugar, honey, jaggery, date syrup—all of these may sound natural, but they are high-GI and aggravate inflammation,” Agnihotri cautions. Even commonly consumed items like dairy, caffeine, and alcohol may need to be eliminated or reduced. “A lot of our everyday habits, like starting the day with tea or coffee, might unknowingly be fuelling our hormonal issues.”

Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods such as turmeric, berries, flaxseeds, and fatty fish can provide additional benefits. These not only support hormone regulation but also reduce oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, two key contributors to PCOS-related complications.

Diabetes and Diet

Managing diabetes especially Type 2, requires constant vigilance over blood sugar levels. But rather than resorting to highly restrictive diets, Agnihotri advocates for a balanced, mindful approach.

“Meals rich in fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats create a slow-release energy source that stabilizes glucose levels,” she says. Think sweet potatoes instead of white rice, lentils over refined flour, and nuts as snacks instead of processed chips. Portion control and meal timing also play crucial roles in preventing sudden spikes and crashes.

Staying hydrated and spacing meals evenly throughout the day is another simple but effective strategy. “Small, frequent meals help the body metabolize sugars more efficiently than long fasting periods,” Agnihotri notes.

Equally critical is monitoring HbA1c levels, a marker of long-term blood sugar control. According to the American Diabetes Association:

• HbA1c of 5.7–6.4% indicates prediabetes
• 6.5% or higher signifies Type 2 diabetes
• Below 5.7% is considered optimal

“The goal should be to stay below 5.7% consistently,” Agnihotri advises, “and that begins with food—smart, intentional food.”

Lowering High Blood Pressure

Hypertension, often dubbed the “silent killer,” rarely presents symptoms in its early stages yet significantly raises the risk of heart disease and stroke. Fortunately, dietary changes can be a front-line defense.

The DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) remains a gold standard. “It’s rich in potassium, magnesium, and fiber,” explains Agnihotri. “That means more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins—while cutting back on salt and processed foods.”

Simple food swaps can have substantial effects: bananas for potassium, spinach for magnesium, beetroot for nitric oxide, and garlic for its natural vasodilatory effects.

Agnihotri emphasizes the importance of label reading: “Just because something is marketed as ‘low fat’ or ‘heart healthy’ doesn’t mean it’s low in sodium or free from harmful preservatives. Awareness is half the battle.”

Why Nutritional Customization Is Important?

There is no one-size-fits-all formula in dietary therapy. Genetics, lifestyle, underlying conditions, and even cultural preferences can influence what diet works best for an individual.

“Personalized nutrition is the future,” says Agnihotri. “What works for someone with PCOS may not work for someone with diabetes. But the foundational principle is the same—choose whole, anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense foods, and avoid what causes damage.”

She strongly recommends working with a certified nutritionist to develop a tailored eating plan that suits your unique metabolic needs and health goals. “Don’t self-diagnose or rely solely on social media trends,” she warns. “Your body is your best guide, learn to listen to it.”

Food should not be viewed simply as fuel, it is a daily prescription for health. When selected mindfully and consumed consistently, the right foods can support hormone health in PCOS, regulate blood sugar in diabetes, and keep blood pressure in check.

The key lies not in restriction but in restoration—reclaiming control over one’s health through educated, empowered eating. As Manvi Agnihotri puts it, “It’s not about a strict diet. It’s about sustainable, nourishing habits that help you feel better every day.”

From balancing blood sugar to calming inflammation, managing stress hormones to regulating cardiovascular risk—your plate has the power to heal. Let it.

Rich in healthy fats, insoluble fiber and many vitamins as well as protein, avocados are known for being one of the highest-fat based plant foods. They are a great source of fiber and are notably high in healthy fats (more than carbohydrates), making them popular in lower-carbohydrate diets, such as those for managing diabetes.

The heart-friendly fats don't raise blood cholesterol, which can make traditional cholesterol-lowering diets more satisfying. As one of the highest-fat plant foods, avocados are also a favorite in vegan and vegetarian diets. Many nutritionists suggest people eat avocados for weight loss, however does it actually help? How does a fruit with a high calorie count as well as 67% fat content, be good for weight loss. We spoke to Anshul Singh, Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Department Lead, Artemis Hospitals to understand the nutritional nuances of avocado.

Avocados Help You Feel Full Longer

Mr. Anshul explained that foods with good fats and fiber make you feel full and content for longer, helps slow down the process of how soon food exits your stomach. Since avocados are rich in both the nutrients, they keep you satiated for longer. One study showed people eating avocado for breakfast felt less hungry. "They also have healthy fats, like monounsaturated fats, which may help the body break down fat and lose belly fat. People who eat avocados tend to have better diets and weigh less," adds Anshul.

Support Weight Management

Research shows people who eat more fruits and vegetables, including avocados, often have lower body weights. Another study found that avocado eaters tended to have healthier diets and a lower risk of certain health issues. This suggests avocados fit well into a healthy eating plan. There's no need to avoid them if you're trying to manage your weight; in fact, regular eaters were less likely to become overweight. "People felt less hungry and more satisfied for hours when they replaced carbs with avocado fats and fiber. This was mostly because hormones like PYY and GLP-1 make you feel full. Adding just half an avocado to lunch made people 23% more satisfied and 40% less hungry over the course of three hours, even though the meal had more calories." says Mr Anshul.

It's not fully clear if avocados directly cause weight loss, but they may help. The healthy fats in avocados might be burned for energy faster and could even increase your body's calorie burning after meals. According to Mr. Anshul, "Nuts and yogurt are good for you, but avocado is more filling and has fewer calories and no added sugar or salt. It feels like a treat without the guilt because it's creamy, healthy, and light. Avocado might be the tastiest way to stay on track when you want to snack smart and reach your goals." They may also reduce your appetite, making you less likely to overeat. However, more research is needed to fully understand these specific effects.

Avocados and Belly Fat

Avocados could help with weight loss, especially targeting belly fat. One study showed people eating a daily avocado as part of a reduced-calorie diet lost weight and had changes in gut bacteria. Another found daily avocado consumption led to significant belly fat loss. Animal studies hint that even avocado extract, without fat, might help reduce appetite and weight gain.

Are Avocados "Fattening"?

Don't worry about avocados being "fattening", when eaten as part of a balanced diet with whole, healthy foods, they're beneficial. Avocados have many qualities that support weight management. While more evidence is building, there are strong signs they can help. Mr Anshul warns, "Avocados are very nutritious, but if you don't pair them well, they can lose their benefits or upset your stomach. Don't mix them with heavy dairy, sugary fruits like mango or banana, or salty processed snacks. These combinations can make you feel bloated, make the flavors clash, or raise your blood sugar levels." Enjoying avocados in reasonable amounts can certainly be a valuable part of an effective weight loss plan.

Anshul adds and shares a few avocado friendly food pairings for people who are trying to lose weight. "Instead, eat avocado with whole grains, lean proteins, fresh veggies, citrus vinaigrette, or nuts to keep its creamy, healthy edge. This will make it taste light and easy to digest."

Feast one day, fast the next—this bold rhythm is taking the wellness world by storm. As millions chase quick weight loss fixes and fatigue over calorie-counting grows, alternate-day fasting is stepping up as a surprisingly effective strategy. Backed by a new global review involving 99 studies and more than 6,500 participants, this eating pattern may outpace both the popular 16:8 routine and strict calorie-cutting diets. And it’s not just about trimming waistlines—it could also reboot metabolism, lower bad cholesterol, and help manage chronic health conditions. Could this be the diet trend that finally changes the game?

a new study has turned the spotlight on a diet strategy that may just be more effective than traditional intermittent fasting: alternate-day fasting (ADF). Coined as the feast-and-famine method, this dietary approach involves a full 24-hour fast every other day, and it might have more potential than the popular 16:8 or 5:2 fasting regimens.

Researchers from a global collaboration spanning the US, Scotland, Germany, and Canada have uncovered promising findings in a meta-analysis that reviewed 99 clinical studies and more than 6,500 participants. The results? Alternate-day fasting led to greater weight loss than continuous calorie restriction or other intermittent fasting strategies, including time-restricted eating and whole-day fasting.

What is Feast-and-Famine Diet Trend?

Alternate-day fasting isn’t exactly new, but its newfound support comes with a stronger scientific foundation. The diet requires individuals to abstain from caloric intake every other day while allowing regular eating on non-fasting days. While this sounds more intense than the popular 16:8 schedule, where food is consumed within an eight-hour window, results seem to speak for themselves.

The average participant in the reviewed studies had a body mass index (BMI) of 31, and a significant majority (89%) had pre-existing health conditions. This makes the findings especially relevant for people dealing with metabolic concerns such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or elevated cholesterol levels.

How ADF is Different from Intermittent Fasting Diet?

Unlike time-restricted eating (e.g., 16:8) or the 5:2 method (fasting for two days each week), alternate-day fasting applies a full-day fasting protocol every other day. This means that in a typical week you would fast for about 3-4 days with no calorie consumption.

What sets ADF apart is how it influences metabolism. Studies suggest that this method can boost metabolic rate, lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol and improve insulin sensitivity. These factors are crucial for people with obesity or those at risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Is ADF Clinically Significant?

Despite the results, researchers caution that ADF did not meet the clinical weight loss threshold of 2 kg often targeted in obesity treatment guidelines. Still, its efficacy relative to other diets offers a compelling alternative for individuals seeking variety or faster short-term results in their weight loss journey.

The authors of the study, published in The BMJ, urge caution and call for more long-term trials. "Minor differences were noted between some intermittent fasting diets and continuous energy restriction, with some benefit for an alternate day fasting strategy with weight loss in shorter duration trials," they noted.

That said, all intermittent fasting strategies, including time-restricted eating and whole-day fasting, led to some degree of weight loss when compared to an ad-libitum diet one without any restrictions.

Experts increasingly view it as a flexible tool that can be customized within a broader, patient-centric model of nutritional care. The new findings support using ADF as part of this toolkit, especially for those who have tried and plateaued with traditional calorie-restriction diets.

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 2.5 billion adults globally are overweight, and 890 million live with obesity. With rates of metabolic syndrome, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes continuing to climb, effective, sustainable, and personalized weight management strategies are more imprtant than ever.

GLP-1 Drugs vs. Fasting: What To Choose For Weight Loss?

Coinciding with the release of this study is the NHS’s decision to allow general practitioners in England to prescribe Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a medication known for its significant weight loss effects. While effective, these medications are expensive and not without side effects.

As a result, dietary strategies like ADF offer an attractive, non-pharmaceutical option for those who may prefer or require lifestyle-based interventions.

Though ADF is proving its mettle in short-term studies, researchers emphasize the need for longer and more rigorous trials. Only with extended observation can we understand whether these weight loss benefits are sustainable, whether metabolic advantages persist and how feasible it is for individuals to stick with such a demanding regimen.

For now, ADF appears to be a promising alternative—particularly for those seeking to shake up their diet strategy or accelerate initial weight loss. Still, it should be undertaken with professional guidance, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions.

Feast-and-famine may sound extreme, but science is increasingly pointing to its potential to outperform more common intermittent fasting techniques. While not a silver bullet, alternate-day fasting offers a new hope for those grappling with weight loss or metabolic health challenges.

As with any diet, the key lies in personalization, consistency, and understanding your own body’s needs. With more long-term studies underway, ADF may soon become a more mainstream strategy for effective and sustainable weight management.