Tamping Down Sugar Cravings

Too much sugar can wreak havoc on our health by spiking insulin, inflammation, and body fat. Unfortunately, it is also addictive. The more we eat, the more we crave. This time of year it gets even harder to resist given that it is around us all the time.

If you choose to eat a piece of candy, savor it at the end of a meal chocked full of protein, good fats, and fiber. That way, the sugar is more slowly absorbed. Remember, the key to our health is what we eat regularly. An occasional sugary treat is not the end of our healthy lifestyle or an invitation to throw in the towel and go on a sugar binge. We can control our sugar cravings and lead a happier, healthier life. We deserve it!

Here are some tips to help beat our sugar addiction:

• Remove sugary drinks (sodas, juices, flavored coffees) from your diet.

• Choose regular or sparkling water with lemon/lime/raspberries or cucumber/mint.

• Eat fruits (with their fiber and nutrients) rather than juices or fruit smoothies (unless you include healthy fats and protein).

• Sweeten your coffee or tea with cinnamon (antioxidant & metabolism booster)

• Choose lower sugar fruits, like berries, fresh or frozen.

• Eat a small square of dark chocolate (full of antioxidants) instead of milk or white chocolate.

• Add olive oil and vinegar to your salads instead of packaged salad dressings.

• Flavor Greek yogurt (high in protein) with berries and nuts & seeds (chock full of nutrients) instead of sugary granola.

• Look for hidden sugar in your processed foods, like dressings, sauces, spreads.

• Make your own spaghetti sauce from canned tomatoes, olive oil, and Italian spices.

• Avoid alcohol drinks sweetened with soda, juices, honey/agave/sugar.

**Content provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not to be considered medical advice.**