Reducing SUGAR in your diet

We get plenty of natural sugars in our diet each day. With the increase in rates of diabetes, we need t think about leading a healthy lifestyle that includes clean eating and fitness. There are simple ways to avoid added sugar in your diet. If you are used to A LOT of added sugar, reduce your consumption over the course of a few months so you get used to the NEW NORMAL.

One way I reduce sugar is to check labels. I do not buy a lot of processed foods, but when I do I look for products with as little added sugar as possible. One place you can start is with PEANUT BUTTER and JELLY/JAM. If you can make both on your own, you can limit the sugar content. Read my recipe for homemade nut butter using ONLY 3 CUPS of NUTS. Read my recipe for homemade chia jam (this recipe uses berries but any berry or stone fruit can be used).

A second place I look to eliminate or reduce added sugars is to look closely at labels on gluten free granola and gluten free granola bars/powerbars. When possible, I made homemade granola bars so I can control the sugar I use in type and quantity. A tried-and-true granola bar recipe I use is my Build-A-Granola-Bar Recipe. 

Another way I look to reduce and/or eliminate sugar is by adding spices. I purchase plain yogurt and add cinnamon and fresh fruit to the yogurt for breakfast. The additions in the home are natural flavorings and not filled with processed sugar like fruit on the bottom yogurt.

A few simple changes to your daily routine can also help you reduce sugar cravings. Excess caffeine boosts sugar cravings, so one way to reduce your sugar cravings could be to cut back by one cup of coffee or tea each day. Getting exercise is known to decrease your sugar cravings, so getting a bit more exercise or increasing the intensity of the exercise you already to can help!

Making a change is difficult if done overnight. Take it one step at a time. You will love the results of cutting back on sugar as you will feel more energized and reduce your risk for diabetes, heart disease, and dental problems, and increase the vitality of your skin!

For more information, go to, http://deliciousliving.com/sugar-check-challenge. You will find an infographic listing 30 suggestions for reducing added sugar.