Most people have always been made to believe that eating sweets can only lead to weight gain and unhealthy living. This results in guilt and shame whenever they indulge in their favorite sweet treats.

However, recent studies have shown that there are specific times that eating sweets can actually help you lose weight. In this article, we shall discuss when it is most appropriate to have your favorite sweet snacks without feeling guilty.

What are sweet treats?

Sweet treats are any foods with a high sugar content, such as chocolate, cakes, pastries, ice cream, and cookies. These treats are loved by all and are often associated with celebrations, gifts, and rewards.

Most people usually avoid them due to their high sugar content and, therefore, the consequential weight gain. Does it have to be that way? Definitely not! You can still enjoy your favorite sweets and lose weight if you have them at the right time and in proper proportions.

The right time to snack on sweets

The time when you eat sweets can affect your weight loss goals.

Eating sweets earlier in the day, say breakfast, is the best time to snack on sweets as they provide quick energy burst and increase the body’s metabolism, stabilizing sugar levels throughout the day. The ideal time to indulge in sweets is between 9 am and 11 am and between 1 pm and 3 pm as this is the time when the digestive system is most active.

The benefits of eating sweets during the right hours

Eating sweets in the morning or during the afternoon provides some benefits for your health and weight loss goals. Below are some of the advantages of having sugar treats during the most appropriate hours.

Eases cravings and reduces hunger pangs

Snacking on sweets between 9 am and 11 am helps to reduce cravings and hunger pangs throughout the day.

The mouth-watering taste of sugar helps in regulating hormone levels, leaving you feeling satiated; hence, no need to overindulge in other unhealthy foods.

Boosts metabolism

By indulging in sweet treats in the early morning, you provide your body with the much-needed calories to start the day. As a result, the body’s metabolism increases, burning more calories, boosting weight loss, and reducing fat buildup.

Improves mood and alertness

Eating sweets triggers the release of dopamine, the feel-good hormone that enhances mood and increases alertness. As such, having a candy bar or a piece of cake during the right time can help you maintain a positive attitude throughout the day.

Enhances performance during workouts

The extra energy provided by the sweet snack taken in the morning or afternoon translates into better performance during workouts. This way, you can burn more calories, maintain a healthy weight, and achieve your fitness goals faster.

The right portions for sweet treats

Although it is essential to snack on sweets during the right time, you should also take note of the intake amounts. Taking more than the required amounts of sweets can lead to the opposite, weight gain instead of weight loss.

Therefore, the ideal portion of sweets is a small quantity that satisfies your taste buds and leaves you feeling full.

Healthy sweet treats to snack on

While snacking, one should ensure that the sweets they are taking are healthy and nutritious. This is because some sweets contain unhealthy ingredients that can cause more harm than good. Below are healthy sweets to consider when snacking;.

Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate with 70% cocoa or higher contains fiber, iron, magnesium, and other minerals that can improve overall health. It also contains antioxidants that protect the body from free-radical damage.

However, you should consume it in small amounts, and it is not advisable to go overboard with it.

Fruit smoothies

Natural fruit smoothies with little to no added sugar can be an excellent substitute for any unhealthy sweet. It contains fiber, vitamins, and lots of antioxidants.

However, due to the high-calorie count, it is recommended to take a small amount that satisfies but does not lead to calorie overloading.

Peanut butter cups

Peanut butter cups are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They keep you feeling full longer and are a great snack for people on a low-carb diet.

However, it is essential to check the ingredient list to ensure they do not contain unhealthy preservatives, trans fats, and unnecessary sugar.

Chia pudding

Chia pudding is a tasty dessert that contains high fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. It is easy to make and customizable to fit your desired taste.

Ensure that you don’t use more than the required amount of sugar, and you should always keep the portions small.

Conclusion

Sweets are not necessarily the enemy when it comes to weight loss. By eating them in healthy portions and at the right time, you can achieve your weight loss goals without compromising the treats you love.

Additionally, healthy sweet treats can be a better substitute for unhealthy sweets; thus, good for your overall health. Don’t let the society’s view of sweets make you feel guilty when indulging in them; with this article, you can enjoy your sweet treats without feeling guilty.