We have to admit we all go weak on our knees, on the sight off sugary delicacies. Why do we indulge in desserts, post a lavish and satiating five-course? Call it our weakness for confectionaries or our long-standing traditions, being passed on from the generations. 

The legends speak, that the practice of ending a meal on a sweet note, started as a bribe to the children to finish up the veggies or more specifically broccoli, ‘sweet for broccoli’ was the practice. More recently experts say it may be, as our taste buds are saturated with savory, to break the monotony sweet is introduced, and it also increases the hunger. So technically the want for food does not end but it surges the hunger.

Some experts blame the brain chemistry for the post-meal sweet tooth. Though there is some evidence that the consumption of sugar or simple carbohydrates enhances the absorption of amino-acid tryptophan. These levels of tryptophan directly influence the levels of serotonin a neuro-transmitter which is essential for mental well-being. Rarely in some individuals, a heavy meal ends on a bitter note, i.e., reactive hypoglycemia. Reactive hypoglycemia presents as excessive sweating, confusion, hunger, shiver and weakness; this condition can be curbed by sweets.

Hence, it is not hazardous to indulge in sweet treats once a while, but always keep in mind the limits to our indulgence.

-Koya Satyasri