Reason Why Some People Crave Sweets After a Meal

Our taste buds become accustomed to foods consumed in rotation, but the variety of desserts makes us want to eat them more.

We may also crave sweets because chemicals that make us feel good are released into the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine.

Sugary foods activate the brain's reward system, called the mesolimbic dopamine system, which causes neurons to release lots of dopamine.

This tells the brain that the experience was positive, which reinforces the behavior every time we finish eating.

Allyson Brigham, a dietitian from Los Robles Regional Hospital in California, said: "Certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin, are linked to mood. Sugary foods can trigger the release of serotonin, making you feel happier and more relaxed," explains Brigham.

"This may explain why people turn to sugary foods as a form of reward or comfort at the end of the day."

Eating sugar repeatedly at the end of the day can cause the brain to build up a tolerance and require more sweet foods to get the same rush of dopamine and serotonin.

"Over time, eating something sweet after dinner can become a habitual behavior. Our brains form habitual associations, and our bodies begin to expect these sweets as part of the evening routine," Brigham continues.

Stress and emotional distress can also lead to cravings for sugary desserts, as getting more serotonin can boost mood and reduce feelings of anxiety or depression.

Getting more nutritional variety at dinner can curb such cravings. 

"Make sure your dinner contains a balance of protein, fiber and healthy fats to increase satiety and reduce post-meal cravings," explains Brigham.

Richardson also recommends replacing candy or ice cream with sweet fruits, such as berries mixed with Greek yogurt or almond butter. These foods contain less sugar but are also rich in protein and fiber that will keep us fuller for longer.