Diabetes is a chronic, metabolic/endocrine disorder, often categorised under lifestyle-related problems. The condition affects how the body utilises sugar or glucose to maintain the body’s energy levels. It leads to a rise in blood glucose/sugar levels, either when the body is unable to produce enough insulin hormone or when the cells are not responding well to insulin.
When having diabetes, it's crucial to consult a diabetologist to manage the condition and keep blood sugar levels in check. If looking for the best diabetologist in Chennai, reach out to Magna Centre, who is the best endocrinologist taking care of diabetics people with years of experience.
Why do people with diabetes crave sugar?
The reasons why diabetics crave sugar include:
Hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar)- Insufficient insulin in the body causes a spike in blood glucose/sugar levels in the blood. This results in increased hunger and sugar cravings, which the body needs to stay energised.
Fluctuating blood sugar levels- Diabetics experience a sharp decline in their blood sugar levels which increases sugar cravings. When diabetics satisfy their sugar cravings, there is a rapid increase in their blood sugar levels which further causes the body to release insulin and then the blood sugar to drop again.
Certain medications- Taking insulin or blood sugar-lowering medication, can cause blood sugar to drop down below normal and increase sugar cravings.
Other factors- Working out on an empty stomach, not planning physical activities, and drinking alcohol can increase sugar cravings by reducing blood sugar.
How to control sugar cravings in diabetes?
Below listed are some strategies that can help diabetics control or curb their sugar cravings.
1. Sticking to a regular meal routine: Dieting or skipping meals can drop sugar levels and trigger sugar cravings.
2. Practising portion control: Taking controlled sugar servings can satisfy the craving without causing considerable fluctuations in blood sugar.
3. Planning healthy meals: When having a sugar craving, it is advised to have foods rich in dietary fibre and proteins as these encourage a full feeling and stabilize the craving. Moreover, diabetics should have foods with low glycemic index.
4. Using sugar substitutes: To avoid affecting blood sugar levels, diabetics should take sugar substitutes like erythritol in moderation to sweeten their foods and drinks.
5. Keeping the body well hydrated: Sometimes diabetics by mistake have a thirst for sugar cravings or hunger. Drinking plenty of water can reduce the intensity of sugar cravings.
6. Staying physically active: Regular exercising helps manage weight and improve insulin sensitivity, thereby allowing control of blood sugar levels.
Diabetes has now become common and can be managed with proper treatments and guidelines that one follows after the best endocrinologist in Chennai advises. You can get more details by consulting the experts at Magna Centre.
