Healthy sweet snacks to curb cravings: 10 low-sugar ideas

In summer it's easy to fall into the trap of ice creams, sugary soft drinks and industrial desserts. With the heat, the holidays and free time, the craving for sweets multiplies… and sometimes willpower stays on the sunlounger.

The 40s affect me too, it's something I can't hide. The hormone changel of this age (which totally took me by surprise!), and the stress of work during the year, I don't know about you, but for me it often leads to a anxiety that makes me snack a lot or constantly crave sweets! That's why I listed all kinds of alternative foods and ideas to enjoy in those moments when temptation is taking over me!

I can attest that you can enjoy sweets without overdoing the sugar. Here are 10 fresh, easy ideas with simple ingredients to always have on hand and avoid those sugar spikes that then leave us half asleep.

Easy food and snack ideas to avoid eating sweets

1. Unsweetened dehydrated fruit

Dried mango, pineapple, apple or apricot are a sweet, natural treat. Always look for the version without syrups or added sugars: just fruit. Ideal to carry in your bag or keep in a jar in the kitchen.

2. Dark chocolate 85% cocoa or more

A couple of squares of good dark chocolate calm sweet cravings and provide antioxidants. The higher the cocoa percentage, the less sugar it will have and the more satisfying it will be.

3. Natural yogurt with fresh fruit

Easy and quick: add strawberries, blueberries, peach or banana to unsweetened natural or Greek yogurt. If you want more sweetness, try a touch of cinnamon or a few drops of vanilla.

4. Homemade fruit ice cream

Blend frozen fruit (banana, mango, strawberries) with a little yogurt and you'll have a creamy ice cream, without sugar and full of flavor. If you like, freeze it in popsicle molds to always have it on hand.

5. Nuts with pure cocoa

Almonds or hazelnuts coated in unsweetened cocoa powder. They're crunchy, filling and have that bitter-sweet note that recalls chocolate, but with much less sugar.

6. 100% fruit compotes

Compotes or fruit purees with no added sugar are a staple to eat cold, as a yogurt topping or even warmed with cinnamon. They are easy to find in any supermarket.

7. Stuffed dates

A date opened and filled with an almond or a teaspoon of natural peanut butter is a sweet bite, but 100% natural. One or two calm the craving. You can add chopped hazelnuts or pistachios on top if you also want an extra energy boost.

8. Coconut chips

Crunchy, fragrant and with natural sweetness. Look for those that are 100% coconut, with no added sugar or weird oils. Perfect for snacking between meals.

9. Fruit skewers

Make skewers with grape, melon, kiwi or strawberries. Keep them in the fridge and you'll have a fresh, pretty and very appealing snack for when the heat hits.

10. Bowl of quark/strained fresh cheese with toppings

Quark (full-fat or 0%) is creamy, filling and very versatile. Add fresh fruit, nuts, seeds or a little pure cocoa powder. It's sweet, refreshing and high in protein, perfect for keeping hunger at bay.

Tips to resist summer temptations or moments of sweet craving

• Always have healthy options already prepared at home.
• Buy small packages or divide into portions so you don't overdo it without noticing.
• Eat calmly and without screens: that way you'll savor it more and eat less.
• Stay well hydrated: often we confuse thirst with hunger.

Keep in mind that it's not about giving up sweets, but choosing them better. With these 10 snacks, you can take care of yourself, refresh yourself and enjoy… without sugar highs and lows.

Also, remember that willpower has a reward: the less sugar you eat, the less sugar your body will ask for. Be strong and start choosing healthy alternatives in moments of sugar craving, and you'll see that the temptation will be smaller each time.