8 Foods That Can Satisfy Sugar Cravings Better Than Candy

Candy or chocolate are go-to treats for those with a sweet tooth, but they may not be the healthiest choices to eat regularly due to their added sugars and lack of nutrients. Luckily, there are plenty of better-for-you foods that not only satisfy your sweet tooth, but also help you avoid the dreaded sugar crash later.

Grapes are essentially natural candy, but unlike real candy, the tiny fruits contain natural (not added) sugar, which causes blood sugar to rise more slowly.

Additionally, grapes provide a modest amount of fiber — almost 2 grams per cup — which also helps regulate blood sugar levels. Fiber also helps you feel full, reducing the urge to consume more sweets.

You can enjoy the grapes as is or freeze them for a refreshing frozen treat.

When you’re looking for something sweet, look no further than your pantry: chances are you have bread, peanut butter, and honey on hand.

This combo can satisfy your sweet tooth while still providing some nutritional value. Peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats, while toast provides long-lasting energy. Honey can also help: It has a low glycemic index, meaning it raises blood sugar more slowly than refined sugar.

For a satisfying treat, try this perfect pairing: almond butter and sliced ​​apples.

Almond butter is rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which help you feel full longer and support everything from muscle health to digestion. Since you’re pairing it with naturally sweet apples (which are also a great source of fiber), opt for an almond butter with no added sugar.

Bonus points: This snack not only satisfies your sweet tooth, but also provides a satisfying crunch.

If a big bowl of ice cream is your kryptonite, Greek yogurt mixed with berries and dark chocolate chips is a great alternative.

For the healthiest version of this treat, opt for dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa and little or no added sugar.

Craving chocolate? A smart swap is cocoa nibs, small pieces of roasted and shelled cocoa beans that contain no added sugar.

The antioxidant-rich beans may be too bitter to enjoy on their own, but you can mix them with frozen berries, banana, yogurt and your favorite milk (or sprinkle them on top) to subtly evoke the flavor of chocolate-covered strawberries or a strawberry-chocolate shake.

This candy-like snack provides plenty of protein and fiber to help keep you full until your next meal, while reducing unwanted sugar cravings.

If you prefer gummy candies, unsweetened dried mango is a surprisingly effective alternative. It has the chewy texture you’re looking for, with plenty of natural sweetness and a healthy dose of immune-boosting vitamin C.

Pairing dried mango with cashews, a rich source of healthy fats, protein and fiber, can help regulate blood sugar and keep you feeling full.

If you tend to gravitate toward baked goods like cookies, cakes, scones, and sweet breads, there are plenty of ways to create healthier, equally indulgent versions. Case in point: dark chocolate chip muffins made with almond flour and natural sweeteners.

To avoid refined cane sugar, opt for natural alternatives like honey, maple syrup or mashed banana.

If you love chocolate bars filled with caramel or nuts, date-based desserts might become your new favorite treat.

With no added sugar and a high dose of fiber (nearly 2 grams per fruit), dates are an obvious substitute for caramel. When paired with nut butter and dark chocolate, which provide protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants, the combination can even taste like a healthier version of a Snickers bar.