There’s no doubt that sugar has come into the spotlight over the past few years, and that recent developments have proven that our bodies and overall health are better without it. Unfortunately however, the average adult consumes more sugar than necessary and often without even knowing, quietly becoming a ‘sugar addict’ without even being aware. In more recent years though, the benefits of beating this addiction and making a more conscious effort to quit this sweet poison are becoming more widely known and appreciated: those who “take the plunge” are experiencing effective weight loss and improved overall health.
Along the way, countless books have started to appear, providing the reader with a sometimes overwhelming combination of facts, opinions, anecdotes, information and ideas.
So how exactly do we steer clear of this addictive, sweet poison for good?
Take It Slow...
It’s important to remember that when making any change, especially a dietary one, a slow and steady transition results in the forming of a stronger, longer lasting habit. That is why we recommend eliminating the most obvious sources of sugar first, like baked goods such as cakes, muffin and brownies as well as milk chocolates, lollies and sugary drinks. And if you can bear it, slowly decreasing the number of sugars in your coffee.
Learn How To Read Labels
With the ‘obvious’ stuff out of the way, it’s time to turn our attention to the labels in our shopping cart. Being able to identify and avoid certain types of sugar while shopping can do wonders for your waistline and overall health. And while it can be tricky at first, you will come to find the sugar section on the nutrition label in an instant, and be able to make an educated food choice.
Look out for words such as Cane Sugar, Brown Sugar, Evaporated Cane Juice, Beet Sugar, Maple Syrup, Agave Syrup, Honey, Sucrose, Glucoses, Dextrose, Fructose and Lactose - and steer clear!
Avoid White Foods
Foods made of white flour, white pasta and white rice are almost always devoid of essential nutrients and are considered ‘simple carbs’. This is because the carbohydrates in these foods are broken down into sugar so quickly that it can cause our blood sugar levels to spike.
And the great news is - there’s always a wholegrain option!
Don’t Drink Your Sugar
Sweetened drinks such as soda, coffee, teas and fruit juices are one of the greatest sources of added sugar out there and avoiding them can only do good. So what do we replace them with? We always reach for the Naked Life Botanic Tonic - bitter, sweet and with a touch of citrus, this 5 calorie per serve drink, is the perfect 100% natural alternative.
Focus On Wholefoods
Another approach to reducing our sugar intake is focusing on a diet of natural, wholefoods. Not only are processed foods more likely to contain artificial ingredients and added sugars, but a cleaner more natural diet can also change our tastebuds, meaning we crave wholefoods instead of sugary treats.
By following these simple sugar-free hacks, we can hopefully improve our diet, mood, energy levels and overall wellbeing; as well as rid ourselves of persistent sugar cravings forever.
You can check out Naked Life's range of sugar free drinks on their website (www.nakedlifesparkling.com.au) and you can purchase their Botanic and Indian Tonics at Dan Murphys.