‘Ek saath, about 19-20’: Karan Singh Grover once revealed Bipasha Basu’s love for motichoor laddoos; the effects of bingeing on sweets

Cheat days have always been a debatable topic among people trying to balance health goals and cravings. While enjoying a sweet treat occasionally can feel rewarding, can going overboard, even if just once in a while, undo their fitness efforts or affect their overall well-being?

We decided to find out the answer by reaching out to an expert. 

Is having a designated cheat day beneficial for people who are otherwise following a balanced diet?

Ashlesha Joshi, senior nutritionist at Tone 30 Pilates, tells indianexpress.com, “A designated cheat day can work for some people as it allows them to enjoy their favourite foods without feeling overly restricted. However, the concept should be approached with balance. When cheat days become binge days, they can create a cycle of guilt and overindulgence that undermines a healthy relationship with food.”

She adds that what works better in the long term is incorporating small portions of one’s favourite foods into a regular, balanced diet, so enjoyment and nourishment coexist without extremes.

What happens to the body when someone consumes a large quantity of sweets in one sitting?

According to Joshi, when a person eats a high volume of sweets at once, blood sugar levels spike rapidly, leading to a surge of energy followed by a sudden crash that can leave them fatigued or irritable. 

“Digestion also gets taxed as the body works harder to process the sudden load of sugar and fat, which can sometimes result in bloating or discomfort. For people with insulin resistance or other metabolic concerns, such large sugar loads can be particularly risky, making moderation essential,” she notes. 

Enjoying foods guilt-free without going overboard and harming health

Joshi states that the key is portion control and mindful eating. If someone loves sweets like laddoos, enjoying one or two slowly and with full attention can be far more satisfying than eating many at once.

“Pairing indulgent foods with healthier meals throughout the day also helps balance overall intake. When people shift from a mindset of “forbidden versus allowed” to one of flexible moderation, they are able to enjoy their favourite foods guilt-free while still supporting their health goals,” concludes the expert. 

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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