As someone who loves sweets, you may have heard that indulging in sugar is a surefire way to gain weight.

While this can be true if you overdo it, there are actually certain times of day when it’s better to enjoy your favorite treats to maintain a healthy weight. In this article, we’ll explore the science behind when to indulge and how to do so in a way that won’t sabotage your health goals.

1. Mid-Morning

If you have a sweet tooth, you may find that you crave something sugary mid-morning.

This is actually a great time to indulge because your body has likely already burned through a good bit of the food you ate for breakfast, and you’re likely to be feeling a bit hungry. Eating something sweet can give you a quick boost of energy and help to keep hunger at bay until lunchtime.

2. After a Workout

After a workout, your muscles are primed and ready to absorb nutrients, making it an ideal time to grab a sweet treat. However, it’s important to choose something that’s also high in protein or fiber to help repair and refuel your body.

Opt for a protein bar or smoothie that contains a small amount of natural sweetener, such as fruit or honey, to satisfy your cravings without overloading on sugar.

3. Early Afternoon

When the post-lunch slump hits, it’s easy to reach for a sugary snack to perk up. However, doing so can often cause a sugar crash that leaves you feeling even more tired.

Instead, try to indulge in something sweet earlier in the afternoon, when your energy levels are still high. Just be sure to pair your treat with a healthy snack, such as nuts or fruit, to avoid a sugar crash and keep your energy levels stable.

4. Before a Workout

Similar to after a workout, indulging in a sweet treat before you hit the gym can give you the energy you need to power through your workout.

However, be sure to choose something that’s easy to digest and won’t weigh you down, such as a piece of fruit or a small smoothie made with yogurt and berries.

5. After Dinner

Many of us have a sweet tooth after dinner, and it’s okay to indulge as long as you do so in moderation. However, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes, as overindulging can cause a sugar crash that leads to poor sleep quality.

Opt for a small serving of dessert or a treat that’s lower in sugar, such as a piece of dark chocolate or a small scoop of frozen yogurt.

6. When You’re Craving Something Sweet

While there’s no perfect time of day to indulge in sweets, there are times when it makes more sense than others. That being said, if you’re really craving something sweet, it’s okay to indulge as long as you do so mindfully.

Focus on savoring your treat and being present in the moment rather than mindlessly snacking on sweets throughout the day.

7. Don’t Forget to Practice Moderation

While the times mentioned above are ideal for indulging in sweets, it’s important to remember that moderation is key.

Daily consumption of high amounts of added sugar can lead to a variety of health problems, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. To maintain a healthy weight and enjoy your favorite treats, it’s important to practice moderation and incorporate sweets into an overall healthy diet.

8. Final Thoughts

If you’re someone who loves sweets, indulging in them at the right times of day can actually help you maintain a healthy weight.

By tapping into your body’s natural rhythms and pairing sweet treats with healthy snacks or meals, you can enjoy your favorite treats without sacrificing your health goals. Just remember to practice moderation and enjoy your treats mindfully.