And your phone-related lack of sleep isn’t helping, either. Sleep deprivation has been proven to increase the production of ghrelin, a hormone that triggers hunger, while reducing your levels of satiety hormone leptin. That means you’ll find it harder to feel full, no matter how many Krispy Kremes you shovel down.
Banishing screens from the bedroom – or, at least, limiting your nocturnal blue-light exposure with an app such as F.lux or Twilight – is the simplest solution. Trust us, that “U up?” text can wait until the morning.
HIT SNOOZE ON YOUR SWEET TOOTH
Keep the lid on your sugar habit with our pick and mix of simple tips
1. THREE SQUARE
Eating regular meals that have a good macro split between protein, quality carbs and healthy fats will help to maintain satiety and prevent your blood-sugar levels from plummeting.
2. SNACK RIGHT
The magnesium in nuts and dark chocolate improves cells’ sensitivity to insulin and maximises the amount of sugar that your body can metabolise to cut spikes and crashes.
3. EXTRA HELPINGS
Add spices, such as cinnamon, to your meals and snacks. Studies have shown that they could help to improve blood-sugar control. Sprinkle a spoonful on your morning oats.
4. GET MOVING
Combat stress with regular exercise. Not only will this reduce anxiety, it will also top up your energy levels, which is a major factor in why people seek out sugar in the first place.
