Most of us eat more sugar than is good for us. Added sugars include high fructose corn syrup and white sugar. These can be found in almost anything. Added sugars can also trick you into wanting more food.
Eating less sugar doesn’t mean eating won’t be fun. Eating less sugar lets you find new eating habits that are better for you. Follow these tips to help keep your life sweet with fewer sweets!
- Breakfast shouldn’t taste like dessert. Many breakfast foods like yogurt and cereal have lots of added sugar. For a healthier breakfast that will fill you up, move away from processed grains. Try high protein foods instead! Try oatmeal with cinnamon and banana, scrambled eggs, or plain yogurt and fruit.
- Limit sugary drinks. Soda, sports drinks, iced teas, and fruit juices have tons of empty calories from sugar. Try to limit these drinks or water them down. If you are looking for caffeine, try unsweetened iced tea. Want something bubbly? Try seltzer.
- Check your snacks. Many foods in our pantry, like crackers, soup, and tortillas, also have added sugars. Many granola bars and power bars are packed with added sugars as well. When you go to the supermarket, pick the snacks with little added sugar.
- Make your own sauces. Sugar hides in most sauces and dressings, like ketchup, barbeque sauce, and tomato sauce. Check labels for added sugar and high fructose corn syrup. You could also try making your own salad dressing with olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and garlic.
- Revamp your dessert. Dessert can still be sweet, even if you are cutting back on sugar. Break your habit of having a full artificially sweetened dessert each night. Have a cup of tea or fresh or dried fruit instead. Save dessert items like cake and cookies for special occasions.
To learn more about wellness contact the Wellness Department at Community Healthcare Network at (212) 432-8494 or [email protected]