Baby Steps With Sugar Reduction
By Donna Stark
You have finally decided that you are sweet enough so you have committed to reducing the amount of refined sugar in your diet. That's great news! But be warned. It may not be as easy as you think. Because sometimes, when you are in the process of trying to eat more healthily, it can be really difficult to manage that sweet tooth of yours, especially if you decide to quit cold turkey. For that reason, many people decide to head into this commitment a little more slowly and to decrease the amount of refined sugar in their diets over time. And although a little extra patience may be required by doing it that way, long-lasting success is sure to be found!
Baby Steps With Sugar Reduction
By taking baby steps during the process of reducing your sugar intake, you are giving your body plenty of time to adjust to the changes, which can help lessen those sugar cravings naturally. So are you ready to give this thing a go? Here are some great tips to get you started.
- Beverages - It's obvious that sodas and energy drinks are loaded with sugar but what you may not realize is that many of the so-called healthy drinks are full of sugar too! Start choosing unsweetened tea and plain or infused water in place of the others.
- Breakfast - Many breakfast food items can be a sugar death-trap so tread lightly! Coffee cake, cinnamon rolls, donuts, cereal, and even smoothies are loaded with exactly what you are trying to eliminate, so make some wise choices to start your day. Choose oatmeal, Greek yogurt, eggs, or fruit, but be careful with hidden sugars in the toppings you pick.
- Snacks - It makes sense that you would avoid the candy and cookies for your afternoon snack, but don't make the mistake of selecting that granola bar or dried fruit without first checking how much sugar they contain! You may be surprised. Many snacks that claim to be healthy are actually filled with more sugar than a chocolate bar so make sure you are reading the labels.
- Dessert - Most desserts are loaded with sugar and should be passed on, but if you really feel the need for something sweet, try something healthier instead, such as fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or dark chocolate.
Keep Backup Nearby
You may never know when a sugar craving will decide to hit, so keep an escape plan next to you at all times. A pack of sugar-free gum, mints, or a piece of fruit are great options here and having them handy will help keep you on the path to success!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Avondale, Ariz.