Everyone is talking about the destructive role sugar plays on our health. New research suggests that sugar in our bodies play a role in the development of cancer, heart disease, alzheimer’s and diabetes. Our bodies do require sugar to function, but studies show that the average american consumes 10 times their daily requirement. So how do you kick your sugar habit? follow the simple guidelines below:
- Eat on time- make sure you consume at least 3 meals a day and make sure you eat them on time. This will prevent you from wanting to reach for the cookie jar when your 3 pm slump hits.
- Make sure you eat whole foods- when preparing your meals, make sure you include as much vegetable, lean meats and fruit.
- Include more fat- including more healthy fats in your diet (think avocado, salmon, nuts and seeds) will give you a feeling of fullness. if you’re satisfied after your main meal, you will be less likely to reach for a dessert after.
- Address emotional issues- some people reach for sugar when they are stressed, depressed or bored. Make sure you know why you are reaching for that tub of ice cream every night. A good way to do this is by, maintaining a food journal. You could use a notepad or download an app like chronometer.
- Include daily exercise- exercise is known to increase energy and alleviate your mood. Start with a 20 minute walk or run everyday and monitor your progress.
- Go cold turkey- to quit sugar all together is tough but sometimes necessary. Try quitting sugar for a period of 21 days or more to maintain a no/ low sugar lifestyle.
