Five Steps To Eliminating Sugar In Your Diet
Oct 07, 2015 03:42PM ● By Flint Zerangue, Sr.
SUGAR. IT TASTES SO GOOD, BUT CAN WREAK HAVOC ON OUR BODY, causing everything from weight gain to inflammation; blood sugar roller coasters to difficulty sleeping at night. While it’s always around us, as we get closer to Halloween, it starts the beginning of the sugar avalanche moving into the holiday season.
GET PLENTY OF SLEEP. Lack of sleep effects our decision making and can cause insulin resistance, which can lead to more cravings for sugar.
ALWAYS EAT BREAKFAST WITH PROTEIN
OR HEALTHY FAT.
Choosing items such
as
DEAL WITH STRESS. Stressful situations
eggs, avocado, olives, nuts, seeds, nut butters,
and cheese can help to stabilize blood sugar
throughout the day, preventing sugar cravings
long into the afternoon. If you are living on the
wild side you can include meats that are not
your typical breakfast option, such as chicken or
meatballs as part of your breakfast fare.
DEAL WITH STRESS. Stressful situations
increase the hormone cortisol, which stimulates
your appetite and triggers emotional eating.
While we can’t completely get rid of stress,
finding some ways to deal with it are crucial.
Consider calling a friend, laughing, going for
a walk, or taking time for deep breathing or
meditation when you feel the stress creeping up.
LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. Hunger doesn’t follow
a clock, so it’s important to listen to your body and
allow yourself to eat before you become ravenous.
You will be able to make a more appropriate
decision about what to feed yourself if you are
not famished.
CREATE BALANCE WITH YOUR MEALS
AND SNACKS. All meals and snacks should
have some healthy fat and protein. Eating just a bag of pretzels or an apple for an afternoon snack
may not be enough to avoid sugar cravings after
dinner. Add a slice of cheese to your apple and
guacamole to your pretzels will move you in the
right direction.
The temptation for sweetness doesn’t necessarily
go away easily. Setting yourself up for success will
ensure you aren’t haunted by sugar constantly.
About the author: Daphne is a food passionista, farm girl wanna-be and registered yet unconventional dietitian with a private practice – My Food Coach. She focuses on unprocessed, real food and balancing the diet with your lifestyle.
Daphne Olivier
