There is an old saying that to stay healthy and keep obesity away, one should have breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a pauper. Dietitians and nutritionists largely agree with the conventional wisdom. If you have a craving for sweets, then taking inspiration from expert advice, you can have a small snack while having breakfast, because experts suggest that the morning is the best time to eat sweets. They say sweets after dinner are a ‘no-no’ while considering lunch time as relatively better. At a time when diabetes and obesity are emerging as global epidemics, it makes sense to completely avoid sweets at dinner and even at lunch. (Also Read | Uncontrolled Diabetes: 5 ways lack of sleep is increasing your blood sugar levels)
“Sweets are often thought of as a guilty pleasure, but if eaten carefully they can also be a delightful addition to a balanced diet. As a nutritionist with years of experience, I often find these sweet recipes We face questions about the best and worst times to enjoy sweets. Let’s take a deeper look at the science behind when to eat sweets to make informed choices for our health and well-being,” Marengo. Says Dr Neeti Sharma, senior consultant, nutrition and dietetics, Asia Hospital, Sector 56, Gurugram.
Why is morning the best time to eat sweets?
“Contrary to popular belief, there is an optimal time to enjoy sweets without compromising health goals. It is generally recommended to eat sweets earlier in the day, preferably during breakfast. This is the time to acclimate your body to sugars and carbohydrates. Gives enough time to metabolize sugar efficiently, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels. Eating sweets as part of breakfast or lunch can provide a steady source of energy throughout the day, preventing cravings and Helps prevent overindulgence later. Opt for healthier dessert options like fruit salads, yogurt parfaits, or whole-grain muffins to boost nutrient intake while satisfying your sweet tooth, says Dr. Sharma. Let’s give.
“Eating sweets in the morning can provide a quick burst of energy without significantly increasing blood sugar levels. Additionally, consuming sweets in the morning gives the body enough time to burn calories throughout the day, reducing the risk of excess calories. Reduces weight gain,” says nutritionist Shruti Keluskar, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Pune.
“Also, consuming sweets after a workout session may be beneficial, as your body seeks to replenish glycogen stores to aid in muscle recovery. Eating sweets after a workout along with protein-rich foods can promote muscle repair and growth. There may be further increase,” says Dr. Sharma.
“Afternoon time can also be a good time to enjoy sweets, especially if you choose fruit-based desserts or lighter options like yogurt parfaits. Eating sweets in the afternoon can help you get a better night’s sleep without disrupting your metabolism or creating a sugar craving later. can help satisfy cravings without having to go through the day. It’s important to choose sweets that are low in added sugars and high in nutrients to support your overall health during pregnancy,” says Keluskar.
worst time to eat sweets
Nutritionists do not recommend eating sweets in the evening and after heavy meals as it can increase sugar levels.
“Eating high sugar or heavy sweets before bed can increase blood sugar levels, which can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to weight gain. If you have a craving for sweets in the evening, Consider choosing a small portion of a healthy food. Add a dessert, such as a piece of dark chocolate or a small amount of sorbet, to satisfy a craving without overloading your system,” says Keluskar.
“Although there is no inherently wrong time to enjoy sweets, some times may be less conducive to optimal health. Late-night indulgence, especially close to bedtime, can disrupt sleep patterns. and can lead to weight gain. Consuming high-sugar sweets before bed can increase blood sugar levels, making it challenging to fall asleep and potentially causing nighttime awakenings. Additionally, heavy meals Eating sweets immediately after can interfere with digestion and lead to discomfort, bloating and indigestion. It is advisable to wait at least an hour or two after eating for proper digestion of the main meal, according to Dr Sharma. Eat meals before eating sweets to allow for.
eat moderately and carefully
Ultimately, the key to incorporating sweets into a healthy lifestyle lies in moderate and careful eating. Instead of viewing sweets as a forbidden delicacy, consider them an occasional indulgence worth enjoying in moderation.
“When consuming sweets, pay attention to portion size and choose quality over quantity. Choose sweets made from nutritious ingredients like fruits, nuts and whole grains, and limit your intake of highly processed, sugary treats. Also, listen to your body’s hunger and satiety signals, and avoid using desserts as a coping mechanism for stress or emotional discomfort. Savor each bite, focusing on taste and texture, And engage in mindful eating practices, being present in the moment,” Dr Sharma concluded.
