If you find yourself reaching for something sweet, try reaching for one of these beverages first instead, says Dr. Terry Shintani, MD, board-certified in preventive medicine, nutritionist, and author of The Peace Diet.
1. Apple cider vinegar
Usually diluted in a glass of water, apple cider vinegar may help reduce sugar cravings and also helps control blood sugar.
2. Green tea
Green tea contains catechins, which may help curb appetite.
3. Lemon or fruit-infused water
Infusing water (still or sparkling) with lemon or other fruit can help curb sugar cravings through fragrance and mild flavor, without adding many calories.
4. Kombucha
Kombucha has a tangy, mildly sweet flavor and provides probiotics, which may also help suppress appetite.
5. Coconut water
Coconut water has a mild, natural sweetness — not to be confused with coconut milk, which is much higher in calories.
6. Coffee
Coffee, whether black or sweetened with stevia or monk fruit, provides chlorogenic acid, which has mild appetite-suppressing effects.
7. Yerba Mate
Yerba mate contains a caffeine-related polyphenol that suppresses appetite and may also help with weight control.
The takeaway
Next time a sugar craving hits, consider reaching for one of these beverages first. For more tips on natural health, get Dr. Shintani’s free eBook, Health Secrets, at peacediet.org.
Sources: NLM Native Voices; additional NIH/PubMed citations on apple cider vinegar, catechins, and chlorogenic acid available on request.