Living a Sweet Life With Less Sugar
By Donna Stark
With the exception of how you place your toilet paper roll on the holder, there is nothing more polarizing or controversial to talk about than sugar. Everyone has an opinion on it. And although most people will agree that excessive amounts of sugar in their diet is a no-no, many still have a hard time figuring out how to reduce or eliminate it. Have you thought about the amount of sugar you consume? It may be time to do so!
Sugar Complications
We all know that sugar is sweet, but the problems it can create are far from it. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, diabetes, high blood pressure, tooth decay, kidney and liver disease, poor skin appearance, chronic fatigue, mood swings, and depression. It is vital to your overall health and wellness to cut back if your consumption of sugar is high. Here are some tips on how you can incorporate healthier habits into your life.
- Read labels - There are hidden sugars everywhere. Know the other names that sugar goes by and read your labels before purchasing your food items. Ideally, sugar should be one of the last ingredients to be listed.
- Drink something else - Eliminate soda, high-sugar juices, and fancy coffee drinks, and choose water instead. Don't like water? Flavor it by infusing fruit, vegetables, or herbs.
- Save your sports beverages - You may like to drink those sports beverages throughout the day, but it is better for your health if you save them for your high-intensity workouts instead. Many of them are loaded with sugar.
- Make substitutions - There are plenty of substitutions you can make for your meals and while cooking that will reduce the amount of sugar in your diet. Choose plain yogurt over flavored and add your own toppings, use applesauce or mashed bananas to sweeten your dishes, and stick with oil and vinegar for your salad dressing. Use all other condiments in moderation.
- Share desserts - There are still ways to satisfy your sweet tooth after a meal, so go ahead and indulge. Just be sure to share your indulgence with someone else. Stick with a few bites of dessert instead of a few helpings or pick up a piece of fruit instead of a piece of cake.
Living a Sweet Life
Believe it or not, life can still be sweet with less sugar in your diet, so start making the necessary changes today. You may be surprised by how good you start feeling and how little you will end up missing the sweet stuff!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Marcos, Calif.