Too Sweet to Be True: Myths About Sugar
By Sara Butler
Sugar is something that's surprisingly difficult to avoid. That's why knowledge is power when it comes to staying away from too much sugar in your diet. What you think you may know about sugar may simply not be true. Here are a few common myths about sugar and the sweet truth behind them.
Myth No. 1: Reading a Nutritional Label is All You Need to Do to Avoid It
It's important to remember that while there are rules surrounding the labeling of foods and nutritional information displayed, it doesn't mean manufacturers don't finesse some of the information to their own benefit.
Sugar should be easy to find on a label, but in practice, it can be kind of confusing. If you see sugar in a form you recognize on the ingredients list, then you may look at the sugar grams listed. But it's important to remember that's only in one serving -- how many servings are in the bag or the can?
You must take any label you read with a grain of, well, sugar. Know your portion sizes and stick to whole foods that you know don't contain added sugars, such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
Myth No. 2: Artificial Sweeteners are Fine
While there is a place for artificial sweeteners in life, there's mounting evidence that eating even artificial sugar can make you crave even more sugar. These artificial sugars also tend to dull the sweet taste of foods that contain natural sugars such as fruit, making you less satisfied to eat them. It's a vicious cycle that can be hard to break out of.
Try to limit the artificial sweeteners in your day and use naturally-sweet foods and spices to satisfy your sweet tooth. Experiment with spices such as vanilla and cinnamon to help you add natural sweetness.
Myth No. 3: If You Have Diabetes, Eat Low Fat
What does this have to do with sugar? Well, when you opt for low-fat options of foods, chances are you're getting a lot more sugar than you may have bargained for. The fat they take out of the food has to be replaced by something to make you want to eat it and most of the time that something is sugar.
If you're working to keep your blood sugar in check, forget the added sugar and focus instead on healthy carbohydrates, protein, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Sugar is everywhere, so be aware that you may be falling into its sweet trap!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Katy, Tex.