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Break Up with Sugar
Too much sugar isn’t just about cavities anymore. Sugar is linked to weight problems, joint problems, heart problems, bone problems, brain problems, and immunity problems. The real problem, however, is that sugar has managed to penetrate its way into nearly everything we eat. Whatever we buy processed, is likely to be sweetened with refined sugars.
Although not all sugar is bad for us as it is found in food we legitimately need to be eating: whole grains, beans, vegetables, and fruit. The problems are those manufactured sugars such as refined, white sugar, high fructose corn syrup, etc.
Going cold turkey and quitting sugar rarely works. Despite its nasty side effects, many people have a sweet spot for sugar. Let go of the addiction one step at a time. Here are 6 ways you can make small changes in your life that add up to less sugar in your diet so you can lose weight and finally break up with that diet disaster—for good!
1. CHANGE YOUR MORNING BOOSTER
If you add a little sugar to your tea or coffee, start adding only half the amount you normally use. You’ll get used to the slight flavour change over time, and it’s an easy way to cut back on your sugar. If you want to keep going, you can slowly scale down until you drink your tea or coffee without any sugar.
2. KNOW YOUR FOOD
You might be surprised to discover just how much sugar is in your yoghurt, ‘wheat’ bread, or salad dressing. There are lots of sneaky sources of sugar out there, so it’s important to be aware of them before you buy and indulge. Knowledge is power.
3. HOMEMADE OVER STORE-BOUGHT
If you find yourself craving sweets—like brownies, cookies, or cake—try making your own version of the treat from scratch. It takes more time, but having control of how much sugar goes into the product can really help limit your sugar intake.
4. SUGARY FRUITS
Although it might seem like you’re making a healthy decision by grabbing a piece of fruit, some fruits contain much more sugar than others (especially dried fruits). When you’re looking for a snack, focus on the less-sugary options—like blackberries, rasp- berries, and grapefruit. If you’re keen on the dried kinds, be sure to check the label for added sugars.
5. EAT FILLING MEALS
Since sugar tends to sneak in during snack time or mindless eat- ing, rather than during meals, make sure that your meals keep you going through the day. Choose meals that are higher in protein and fibre to keep you feeling fuller for longer, which can ward off a sugar craving in the afternoon.
6. SNEAKY SMOOTHIES
Smoothies can seem like the perfect low-sugar treat, but it all depends on what goes in them. Some smoothies can be bad with hidden sugary ingredients like sweeteners, frozen yoghurt, or sorbet. Try making a smoothie at home with low-sugar yoghurt or add dates, agave, or honey for sweetness instead of sugar.
