Cross Training For Runners

Sugar Intake Unveiled: How to Take Control of Your Health

22 Mins read

Are you ready to take down the sugar monster and reclaim control over your health? Well, buckle up because we’re about to dive into some eye-opening truths about sugar and equip you with six powerful strategies to reduce your intake and restore balance to your diet.

Let’s start with the hard facts. Sugar, my friend, is the ultimate diet saboteur. It’s like a sneaky infiltrator, adding little to no nutritional value while piling on the calories. Talk about a wolf in sheep’s clothing! But that’s not even the worst part.

Sugar has been identified as the primary culprit behind a laundry list of diseases that can send shivers down your spine. We’re talking type II diabetes, obesity, infertility, impotence, depression, tooth decay, and high blood pressure. It’s like a toxic cocktail that wreaks havoc on your body and mind.

Hold on tight because the statistics are staggering. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), approximately 16% of the typical American diet is made up of sugar. That’s a significant chunk! As a nation, we’re simply overdosing on the sweet stuff. But it gets worse. Research has revealed a jaw-dropping shift in our sugar consumption over the years.

Back in the 1800s, we were chowing down on a modest 10 pounds of sugar per person per year. Fast forward to today, and that number has skyrocketed to a mind-boggling 150 pounds per person, per year. That’s enough sugar to build a sweet fortress!

To put this sugar avalanche into perspective, imagine lugging around three pounds of sugar every week. It’s like carrying the weight of half a gallon of milk, a box of wine, or a giant can of Crisco shortening. I don’t know about you, but that visual sends shivers down my spine.

But wait, there’s more. Brace yourself for this one—on average, the typical American diet includes a staggering 30 teaspoons of added sugar daily. That’s over 500 calories, equivalent to chugging down two 20-ounce sodas. It’s like pouring a sugar tsunami into your system every single day.

Now that we’ve laid bare the sugar epidemic, it’s time to take action.

Are you ready to kick this nasty habit to the curb?

Fantastic! Here are six powerful strategies that will empower you to break free from the clutches of sugar and embrace a healthier, more vibrant life. These strategies are backed by research, tested by countless individuals, and proven to make a significant impact on reducing sugar intake.

Are you in? Let’s do this!

My Sugar Addiction

Sugar, oh sugar, you were my ultimate vice, my guilty pleasure that I couldn’t resist. From my earliest memories, I found solace in the sweetness, seeking comfort in the embrace of biscuits, donuts, chocolate bars, and all things saccharine. I even had a weakness for sugary breads, muffins, and indulging in the creamy delight of heavy cream. It was an insatiable craving that seemed to have no bounds.

Deep down, I knew the truth. I knew that sugar was my enemy, lurking in the shadows of my indulgence, wreaking havoc on my health. I was well aware that I exceeded the recommended daily limit of the stuff. But knowing something is harmful and taking action to change it are two different battles, aren’t they? It’s a constant struggle we face when confronted with our weaknesses.

If you’re reading this, chances are you understand the struggle all too well. Cutting sugar from our lives is no easy feat, and there are countless reasons why it’s an uphill battle. Sugar has infiltrated every corner of our lives, stealthily finding its way into our diets. It’s omnipresent, hidden in processed foods, tempting us with its alluring sweetness. And let’s not even get started on the tantalizing deliciousness of foods with added sugar. It’s as if they were crafted to captivate our taste buds and keep us hooked.

I used to believe that my active lifestyle would save me from the consequences of my sugar addiction. With my dedication to running, weight lifting, and yoga, I thought I had a free pass to indulge in all the sugary delights. How wrong I was. The truth slapped me in the face like a wake-up call. Being a runner doesn’t grant us immunity to the effects of a poor diet. No matter how fast or fit we are, we can’t outrun the consequences of a crappy diet.

Then, about 18 months ago, a pivotal moment arrived in my life. It was a turning point that forced me to confront the harsh reality of my family’s medical history—metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and heart disease. Feeling motivated enough, I mustered the strength to make a change. It wasn’t an easy journey. I stumbled and fell countless times, trying various methods and failing miserably most of the time.

But slowly, with persistence and determination, I made progress. Eleven months of trial and error brought me to a place where most people would consider me sugar-free. It’s an achievement I hold dear and take pride in. Of course, I still allow myself the occasional cheat day, because life is all about balance. However, the difference now is that I make the conscious choice to indulge, and that sense of control empowers me.

Breaking free from the clutches of sugar is a battle worth fighting. It’s a journey that requires resilience, self-discovery, and a deep understanding of oneself. Trust me, the feeling of triumph over your sugar addiction is a sensation like no other. With every temptation resisted and every craving overcome, you gain a newfound strength that resonates through every aspect of your life.

The takeaway?

If you take anything from my story, realize that this process does not happen overnight.

It takes a lot of patience and strength to make it happen, but long term, it’s worth the trouble.

How To Reduce Sugar Intake

What follows are some of the steps (not necessarily in chronological order) that I took to get rid of sugar without going bonkers or feeling deprived.

Eating the way I’m describing today will help you kick sugar to the curb but also help you feel lighter, more energized, and much healthier.

That’s a bunch of good things if you ask me.

1.     Admit You’re an Addict

First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room. You might be thinking, “What’s all this talk about addiction? It’s just sugar!” Well, hold on tight, because the reality is far more unsettling than you might expect.

Here’s the deal: If you find yourself consuming copious amounts of sugar, it’s not just your waistline and overall health that suffer. Recent studies have shown that sugar can actually trigger addiction-like symptoms. Yes, you heard me right. Sugar can hijack your brain and send it into a pleasure frenzy. In fact, research has revealed that sugar stimulates the same pleasure centers in the brain as notorious substances like heroin or cocaine. Now, that’s a wake-up call.

Let’s get scientific for a moment. When you consume sugar, it sets off a chain reaction in your brain. The nucleus accumbens, a region responsible for producing dopamine, gets activated. And guess what? Dopamine is the superstar neurotransmitter that’s closely linked to pleasure. So, every time you indulge in a sugar-laden treat, your brain lights up like fireworks on the Fourth of July.

To drive this point home, let’s take a look at a fascinating study conducted at Connecticut College. Researchers decided to put the beloved Oreo cookie to the test. They examined how Oreos affected the brains and behavior of rats. And what they discovered was jaw-dropping: Oreos could be as addictive as cocaine! Now, I’m not suggesting you should never savor an Oreo again—I’m not that cruel. But this study highlights the astonishing grip sugar can have on our brains.

Now, here’s where things get personal. To truly grasp the extent of your sugar addiction, I challenge you to take the Yale Food Addiction Scale test. It consists of 25 thought-provoking questions designed to shed light on whether you’re dependent on sugar.

This test isn’t just about sugar; it also measures your dependency on high-fat foods. It’s an eye-opening experience that can help you gauge the seriousness of your addiction and take the necessary steps toward reclaiming control.

Think of it as a detox, similar to quitting hard drugs. Just like any addiction, kicking the sugar habit can come with intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It’s not an easy journey, but trust me, it’s worth it. By gradually weaning yourself off sugar, you can break free from its clutches and regain control over your health and well-being.

2.    Cut Back On Bread

Bread is the beloved staple of the Western world’s diet. It’s time we have a heart-to-heart about why bread may not be the best companion for your health journey. And trust me, the reasons are plenty.

Let’s start with the basics. Bread, even the so-called “healthy” whole wheat varieties, is brimming with carbohydrates and refined sugar. And when it comes to essential nutrients and fiber, well, let’s just say bread falls short in that department. This is particularly true for its paler cousin, white bread, which can wreak havoc on your weight and overall well-being.

But hey, don’t just take my word for it. Science is right there in my corner, waving its research papers and saying, “Hold up, folks!” A study conducted at the University of Navarra in Spain found that consuming more than three or four slices of white bread each day was associated with a whopping 40 percent higher risk of becoming obese. Now, that’s food for thought.

I get it, though. Bread is a universal delight. Its tantalizing aroma, its irresistible taste—no wonder it has such a hold on us. But fear not, my friend, for I’m here to tell you that bidding farewell to bread doesn’t have to be an insurmountable challenge. With a dash of motivation and a sprinkle of discipline, you can conquer this task.

Let’s start by making small adjustments. Say “no” to sandwiches that come wrapped in carb-loaded bread. Next time you dine out, resist the temptation of the bread basket, teasing you with its seductive offerings. And if you find yourself unable to part ways completely, limit your bread intake to just one slice per meal. It’s all about baby steps.

Now, if you simply can’t fathom a life without bread, I have some fantastic news for you. There’s a world of delicious low-carb bread recipes waiting to be explored. Yes, you heard me right. You can whip up your very own bread creations that are both convenient and easy to make, all while keeping those pesky carbs in check. It’s a win-win situation.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not swap out that traditional white bread for healthier alternatives? Think of options like nutty barley, protein-rich quinoa, earthy brown rice, or the trusty whole-wheat bread. These choices will not only add variety to your meals but also provide you with a nutrient boost that bread alone can’t offer.

For more on why you should ditch white bread, check the following studies:

3.    Go For Low-Carb Snacks

When cutting down on sugar, it’s good to have a few healthy snacks in case you get hungry between meals. Trust me, it happens to the best of us.

Especially in the early weeks of your new sugar-reducing regime, having the right snacks can make all the difference. But here’s the twist: most snacks out there are loaded with sugar and unhealthy additives. It’s like they’re little sugar bombs disguised as innocent munchies, offering little to no nutritional value. Sneaky, right?

But fear not, for I have a solution that will change the snacking game for you. It’s time to bid farewell to those sugary villains and swap them out for healthier alternatives. The key is to choose snacks that are high in healthy fats, lean protein, and fiber, while keeping the sugar, grains, and carbs in check. Enter low carb snacking. These snacks will not only keep you satisfied but also help you consume less during your upcoming meal and throughout the day. Talk about a win-win situation!

Now, let me introduce you to some of my all-time favorite healthy snacks. We’ve got cheese, providing both protein and deliciousness. Then we have almonds, walnuts, peanuts, and hazelnuts, packed with healthy fats and a satisfying crunch. And let’s not forget about our dear friend, the avocado, with its creamy texture and abundance of healthy fats.

But wait, there’s more! Say hello to berries, nature’s little bursts of sweetness that also come with a healthy dose of fiber. Non-starchy veggies make an appearance, offering a crunchy and guilt-free snack option. And last but certainly not least, we have the vibrant and refreshing kiwi, ready to tantalize your taste buds and provide a boost of vitamins.

These snacks will become your go-to allies on this sugar-cutting journey. Keep them stocked in your pantry or fridge, ready to rescue you from the clutches of unhealthy snacking. Remember, it’s all about making smart choices that nourish your body and keep those sugar cravings at bay.

4.    No Sugary Drinks

If you’re on a mission to cut down on sugar, let me tell you, boycotting sugar-sweetened drinks should be right at the top of your to-do list. Trust me, I’ve been there, and eliminating those liquid sugar bombs from my life made a world of difference in my overall diet. It’s like taking a massive leap towards a healthier, sugar-free paradise.

But why are sugary drinks so bad for you? Well, let me break it down for you. These beverages are notorious for packing excessive amounts of added sugar. And you know what happens when you consume too much sugar, right? It’s like opening the floodgates to a whole host of health risks, including the dreaded type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and unwanted weight gain. Not exactly the squad you want to join.

Now, if you need some convincing, let me hit you with some mind-blowing research. Brace yourself. A study published in the prestigious American Journal of Public Health revealed a strong link between soda consumption and an increased risk for diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and a whole bunch of other health ailments. It’s like a red flag waving frantically, trying to grab your attention.

But let’s zoom out for a moment and take a look at the bigger picture. The National Institute of Health reports that soda, my friend, is the third largest source of calorie intake in the typical American diet. Can you believe that? And here’s a jaw-dropper for you: sweet beverages account for almost half of the added sugar in the average American’s diet, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest. It’s like we’re swimming in a sea of liquid sugar.

Now, let’s get real about portion sizes. You can’t fool yourself into thinking that limiting yourself to just one can a day will do the trick. Oh no, not even close. A 12-ounce can of soda can contain a whopping 30 to 50 grams of sugar. That’s more than an entire day’s worth of sugar intake in one little can. Mind-blowing, right?

To put things into perspective, let’s play a little comparison game. One can of soda is equivalent to devouring one cup of ice cream, munching on four Tim Tams (yes, those chocolatey delights), savoring three English muffins, or enjoying four large peaches. That’s a lot of sugar packed into a seemingly innocent can.

5.    Stop Drinking Fruit Juice

Fruit juices are nothing more than glorified junk food. Yep, I said it.

Sure, they might contain a smidge of nutrients and minerals, but let’s be honest, that doesn’t make up for what they’re lacking. When you sip on that glass of fruit juice, all you’re really getting is a concentrated dose of sugar and water, with one crucial ingredient missing: the healthy fiber that the fruit itself provides. It’s like plucking the heart out of a story and expecting it to make sense. It just doesn’t work that way

Now, here’s the kicker: fruit juices aren’t all that different from the regular ol’ Coke you’d find on a store shelf. Yes, you heard me right. Those innocent-looking fruit juices are packing a punch of sugar that rivals the notorious Coke. Let’s break it down. A cup of apple juice can contain a whopping 29 grams of sugar, while grape juice can hit you with 35 grams in a cup. Take a moment to let that sink in.

Now, compare it to the 39 grams of sugar found in a 12-ounce can of Coke. Shocking, isn’t it? It’s like guzzling a can of Coca-Cola disguised as a fruity treat.

So what’s the solution? Well, it’s time to give those fruit juices the boot and opt for the ultimate hydration hero: water. Yes, good old H2O. It’s calorie-free, refreshing, and does wonders for your body. And if you’re craving a little flavor, you can jazz up your water game by tossing in a slice of lemon or orange. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.

But here’s an even better idea. Why not enjoy the whole fruit itself? You know, the one that still has its nutrient-packed flesh and fiber intact. That way, you get the full package—the vitamins, the minerals, the fiber—all wrapped up in a delicious and satisfying bite. It’s like experiencing the complete story, rather than settling for a mere summary.

6.    Use Sweeteners Instead of Sugar

Picture this: just one innocent tablespoon of white sugar contains a whopping 12 grams of carbs. But here’s the real kicker—it’s not just any carbs we’re talking about. No, no. It’s sucrose, a mischievous combination of 50 percent glucose and 50 percent fructose. That’s a whole lot of sugar packed into a tiny spoonful.

Here’s the sliver lining. There are actually a few sugar-free sweeteners out there that might just surprise you with their health benefits. Yeah, you heard me right. Sweeteners that won’t send your blood sugar skyrocketing and might even bring a few positive perks along for the ride. Sounds like a win-win, doesn’t it?

Let me introduce you to a couple of these sugar-free wonders that have been making waves in the market. First up, we’ve got Stevia. It’s the cool kid on the block, a low-calorie sweetener extracted from the leaves of the Stevia Rebaudiana plant. The best part? Stevia practically has zero calories, so you can sweeten things up without worrying about the calorie overload. And get this—it has even been found to help regulate blood sugar and blood pressure for folks with diabetes. Talk about a multitasking superstar!

Next in line is Xylitol. This little gem is a sugar alcohol derived from birch bark and can also be found naturally in many fruits and vegetables. While it does have a calorie count of 2.4 calories per gram (which is about two-thirds of what you’d find in table sugar), it packs in 100 percent of the sweetness. So, you can indulge your sweet tooth without going overboard on the calorie front.

Last but not least, let me introduce you to Erythritol. It’s another sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in certain fruits. Now, here’s the fascinating part—it boasts a mere 0.24 calories per gram, which is roughly just 6 percent of the caloric value of table sugar. But don’t let its low-calorie status fool you—it still brings about 70 percent of the sweetness. Talk about having your cake and eating it too!

7.    Focus on Non-Starchy Vegetables

I love vegetables—and for all the right reasons.

Vegetables are an ideal source of nutrients and fiber.

They’re also rich in phytochemicals (plant compounds), many of which stimulate the immune system, slow the growth rate of cancer cells, reduce inflammation, etc.

That said, when I got serious about getting rid of sugar—especially after I started the keto diet—I realized that some veggies contain more sugar than others.

Avoid starchy ones like carrots, peas, beets, sweet potatoes, corn, and lima beans when choosing veggies.

These have drastically higher sugar content, which means that eating them can quickly take you to your maximum daily sugar intake—and you don’t want that.

Instead, opt for low-carb, non-starchy vegetables.  The following are among the best:

  • Broccoli
  • Cucumber
  • Leeks
  • Artichoke
  • Asparagus
  • Brussel sprouts
  • Kohlrabi
  • Mushroom
  • Okra
  • Baby corn
  • Cauliflower
  • Onions
  • Chayote
  • Celery
  • Jicama
  • Bamboo shoots
  • Cabbage
  • Daikon
  • Radishes
  • Salad greens
  • Swiss chard
  • Turnips
  • Peppers
  • Sprouts
  • Squash
  • Eggplant

You have plenty of options.

Who says eating low carb is a hassle?

8.    Eat Low Carb Dairy

After being on the keto diet for quite a while, I’ve become quite the connoisseur of low-carb dairy products. And let me tell you, they’re like the unsung heroes of fitness and health. Not only are they incredibly satisfying, but they also bring a whole host of benefits to the table.

Picture this: you’re enjoying a creamy and indulgent bowl of dairy goodness, and not only does it keep you feeling fuller for longer, but it also works its magic to reduce your appetite. It’s like a superhero cape wrapped around your stomach, whispering, “No more unnecessary snacking, my friend.”

But that’s not all! These dairy powerhouses have been found to lower the risks of heart disease, boost bone health with their rich supply of magnesium and calcium, and even offer a secret weapon called conjugated linoleic acid (CLA).

Now, let’s talk about this CLA. It’s like the hidden gem within dairy, a naturally occurring fatty acid that has caught the attention of researchers in several studies. And guess what they found? It’s a health promoter! It’s like the sidekick that accompanies your dairy intake, working behind the scenes to support your overall well-being.

But here’s the thing: not all dairy is created equal. You see, there are some sneaky imposters in the dairy world that you need to watch out for. We’re talking about those frozen yogurts, fruit-flavored yogurts, and puddings that claim to be your friends but are secretly loaded with carbs, sugar, and a whole bunch of additives.

They’re like wolves in sheep’s clothing, tempting you with their sweet promises while wreaking havoc on your low-carb goals.

When it comes to choosing your dairy delights, opt for those with less sugar added. Look for the full-fat options that are brimming with goodness. You see, low-fat products like yogurt, shakes, and smoothies might try to lure you in with their promises of being healthy, but guess what?

They often come with a hidden secret—more sugar than their full-fat counterparts. So, stick to the real deal, my friend. Embrace the creaminess, the richness, and the fullness that full-fat dairy has to offer..

9.    Plan your Meals

If you’re on a mission to shed those pesky 10 pounds and transform your eating habits, I’ve got a golden nugget of wisdom for you: meal planning is the key to success.

Think of it this way: meal planning is like having your own personal GPS system for healthy eating. Without a plan, you’re simply sailing through life without a rudder. It’s like wandering aimlessly through a maze, hoping to stumble upon the right path. But my friend, failing to plan is, in fact, planning to fail. You need to take control of our nutritional destiny and pave the way for success.

Picture this: it’s a busy day, you’re juggling a thousand tasks, and the clock is ticking. In those moments, our willpower is put to the ultimate test. We’re more likely to succumb to the siren call of convenient, ready-to-eat meals that are loaded with empty calories, sneaky sugars, and unhealthy fats.

But fear not! The power of meal planning swoops in to save the day. Here’s what you need to do: carve out some time, preferably on a serene Sunday when you can bask in the calmness of the day, and sit down to create a master plan.

Start with breakfast, that glorious fuel that kickstarts your day. Decide what delicious and nourishing options will grace your morning table.

Move on to lunch, crafting a lineup of satisfying meals that will keep you energized and focused throughout the day.

And finally, conquer the kingdom of dinner, where you’ll create mouthwatering feasts that align perfectly with your goals.

Once your plan is solidified, let it guide your shopping trips. Armed with your list, venture into the grocery store like a skilled hunter, picking up only the ingredients you need for your pre-determined meals.

Get Enough Sleep

Now, picture this: you’ve had a few rough nights in a row, tossing and turning like a ship lost at sea. You wake up feeling groggy, irritable, and craving all the wrong foods. It’s like a recipe for disaster, right? But fear not because science has our back on this one.

In the hallowed halls of British research, a groundbreaking discovery was made: the undeniable link between sleep deprivation and those devilish cravings for unhealthy, sugary delights. It’s not just my subjective observation, my friends. It’s backed by cold, hard evidence.

Here’s what they found: when those brave subjects prioritized their nightly slumber and got some quality shut-eye, something remarkable happened. Their cravings took a nosedive. In fact, a good night’s sleep had the power to reduce their sugar intake by up to a whopping 10 grams the following day. Now that’s some serious sleep magic right there!

But you may be wondering, why does sleep deprivation turn us into sugar-seeking machines? Well, according to the prevailing theory, it all comes down to our hormones. You see, when we skimp on sleep, it messes with the delicate balance of these hormonal warriors. It suppresses the hormones that tell us we’re full and satisfied while cranking up the ones that shout, “Feed me, I’m famished!”

In other words, the less time you spend cozied up in dreamland, the more ravenous you’ll feel. It’s like your body’s internal hunger alarm goes haywire, constantly demanding fuel to keep you going. No wonder those late-night sugar cravings feel utterly irresistible!

So what’s the solution? Well, if you want to banish those sugar cravings and unlock the power of a restful night’s sleep, listen closely.

First and foremost, create a pitch-black haven in your bedroom. Embrace the darkness, my friends, for it stimulates the production of the magical melatonin hormone—a key player in achieving that restful slumber we all crave.

Next, brace yourself for the challenge ahead. Yes, I’m talking about avoiding screens in the hours leading up to bedtime. I know, it’s like asking a magician to give up their wand, but trust me, it’s worth it. Those screens emit a pesky blue light that disrupts your sleep-wake cycle, making it harder for you to drift off into dreamland.

Now, consistency is key, my friends. Make it a habit to hit the hay at roughly the same time every day, even on the glorious weekends when temptations to stay up late beckon. Your body craves routine, and by honoring it, you’ll pave the way for a peaceful slumber.

11.  Practice Out of Sight Out of Mind

Here’s a simple equation for you: a stocked pantry full of sweet treats equals a higher chance of indulging. It’s as clear as day. I don’t know about you, but if I have a bag of mouthwatering cookies or a tempting chocolate bar within arm’s reach, resistance becomes a Herculean task.

My best advice? Take control of your pantry. I’d urge you to embark on a mission of elimination, clearing away the sugary seductions that lurk in your cupboards, fridge, and freezer.

In this grand purge, leave no stone unturned, no treat untouched. Toss out the Pop-Tarts, banish the Halloween candy, and bid farewell to all those sugar-rich culprits that have been sabotaging your journey towards a healthier you. Trust me, leaving nothing to chance is the secret sauce to success.

By setting your environment up for success, you’ll find it easier to resist the allure of sugary temptations and make choices that align with your goals.

Now, I know we can’t always control every environment we find ourselves in, but guess what? You have the power to control the battleground of your kitchen. It’s time to reclaim that sacred space and turn it into a beacon of wholesome nourishment.

12. Eat Your Protein

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of why protein is your new best friend. Picture this: with every protein-packed bite, you’re igniting a chain reaction of satisfaction that lingers for hours. How does it work?

Well, protein has a magical ability to trigger the release of the fullness hormone PYY, giving you that blissful feeling of being satisfied for longer periods of time. Say goodbye to those pesky hunger pangs!

But wait, there’s more! Protein has another superpower—it knows how to keep that pesky hunger hormone ghrelin in check. By hindering its release, protein acts as a shield against those relentless cravings, ensuring you stay on track towards your goals. And here’s a bonus: protein gives your metabolism a much-needed boost, revving up the engine that burns those calories. It’s like having a personal trainer for your metabolism!

So how do you get the most out of protein? Simple. Start your day with a protein-powered breakfast. Think of it as your secret weapon against the sugar temptations that lurk around every corner. By fueling your morning with a protein-rich breakfast, you’ll be armed and ready to face the challenges that come your way.

Here are some of the best sources of protein:

  • Meat (think juicy steaks or tender chicken breasts)
  • Poultry (chicken and turkey, anyone?)
  • Fish (delight in the wonders of salmon, tuna, or trout)
  • Cheese (yes, cheese lovers, rejoice!)
  • Eggs (nature’s protein powerhouse)
  • Greek yogurt (creamy and packed with protein)
  • Nuts (snack on almonds, walnuts, or cashews for a protein boost)

With these mighty protein sources at your side, you’ll be well-equipped to conquer your sugar demons and achieve your health goals.

13. Read The Labels

When I embarked on my mission to conquer the sugar monster, I knew I had to arm myself with knowledge. So, I delved into the world of research, ready to decode the secrets hidden within ingredient labels.

Let me tell you, it was like peering behind the curtain of a grand illusion. My eyes were opened, and I was determined to crack down on those sneaky sugar-laden culprits lurking in our everyday products.

Once I knew more than average guy, I set out to identify the culprits that were sabotaging my sugar-free goals. Juice? No more. Soda? Out the door. Candy, sauce, crackers, desserts, and condiments? Consider them banished from my pantry. It wasn’t an overnight transformation, but let me assure you, the effort was well worth it—and it will be for you too.

However, sugar goes by many aliases, disguising itself in the most cunning ways. Allow me to unveil just a few of its deceptive names:

  • Molasses, the sweet and sticky charmer.
  • Fructose corn syrup, the notorious troublemaker.
  • Dried cane syrup, the refined sugar in disguise.
  • Brown rice syrup, the seemingly innocent imposter.
  • Maple syrup, the natural seducer.
  • Agave, the sweet-talking deceiver.
  • Organic cane sugar, the sneaky disguise.
  • Fruit juice concentrate, the concentrated sweetness trap.
  • Sucrose, glucose, maltose, fructose, lactose, and other culprits ending in “ose.”

If you spot more than a handful of these sugar aliases on an ingredient list, my friend, it’s time to bid farewell to that product. Trust me, it’s far less healthy than it pretends to be, and you deserve better.

14. Drink water

Water is key to life. This magical elixir has an array of benefits that are bound to leave you in awe. Not only does it cleanse your system by flushing out toxins, but it also quenches your skin’s thirst, boosts your energy levels, and ensures the smooth sailing of your cells’ intricate operations.

But that’s not the whole story. Staying hydrated is your secret weapon in the battle against sugar cravings.

You see, my friend, our bodies often confuse thirst with hunger. But fear not, for water is here to save the day. Sometimes, all it takes to kick those sugar cravings to the curb is a refreshing glass of H2O. In fact, for some of us (including yours truly), staying hydrated can vanquish up to 80 percent of those pesky desires.

So, before you succumb to the siren call of the vending machine or surrender to the temptation of a box of doughnuts, pause for a moment and reach for a glass or two of water. Quench that thirst and give it a few moments. You might just discover that your body was simply yearning for water, not food, and those nagging pangs fade away into oblivion.

To keep your body happily hydrated throughout the day, I’ve got a few tips up my sleeve. Start your morning off right by drinking a refreshing glass of water to kickstart your hydration journey. Then, become best friends with a trusty water bottle that accompanies you wherever you go.

Oh, and here’s a little secret: your pee holds the key to hydration wisdom. Take a moment to examine its color. If it’s on the darker side, it’s a sign that you need to up your fluid intake. Remember, once you feel that undeniable thirst, it’s already a sign that dehydration has set in.

Go Keto

I’ve always been a bit skeptical when it comes to extreme diets or rigid eating plans. I believe in finding balance and enjoying a wide variety of foods. However, there was something about the ketogenic diet that piqued my curiosity. Its simplicity and potential effectiveness intrigued me, so about nine months ago, I took the plunge and decided to give it a shot. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer.

So, what exactly did this keto adventure entail? Well, it meant bidding farewell to carbs and wholeheartedly embracing a world of healthy fats. I stocked up on delicious goodies like cheese, avocados, nuts, and salmon, and let me tell you, it was a flavor party for my taste buds. Of course, I had to weather the stormy seas of the dreaded keto flu during the initial couple of months.

But once I sailed through that challenging phase, the results were remarkable. I shed 10 pounds of pure fat, my energy levels skyrocketed, and my entire perspective on eating underwent a transformation. It was like unlocking a secret portal to a healthier, more vibrant life.

Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is this keto eating all about? Let me break it down for you. The ketogenic diet is all about keeping those carbs in check, moderating your protein intake, and embracing healthy fats with open arms.

By reducing your carb consumption and obtaining 70 to 80 percent of your daily calories from good fats, you can nudge your body into a state of metabolic wonderland called ketosis.

How To Reduce Sugar Intake – The Conclusion

There you have it! If you’re looking for ways to cut out sugar from your diet then today’s post should get started on the right foot. The rest is just details.

Please feel free to leave your comments and questions in the section below.

In the meantime thank you for dropping by.

David D.

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