So today begins National Sugar Awareness Week. Are you eating too much sugar? As you know, we all love sugar. However, sugar in large amounts is bad for you.

National Sugar Awareness Week

As we begin the New Year, it seems now is a good time to reduce sugar from our diet. In the first place, sugar can be found in almost everything. Heart disease is one of the leading cause of death for Men and Women. Not only is sugar associated with obesity and diabetes; but also causes cardiovascular disease.

Since sugar is in a lot of processed food, canned food and soft drinks; let’s focus on eliminating our intake.

National Sugar Awareness Challenge

First and foremost, National Sugar Awareness week is January 15 – 19th.

Are you ready to take on the challenge? For the next five days; eliminate sugar from you diet. Of course, this is hard to do. This challenge is calling on people to take the quiz. Take this quiz to learn if you have an unhealthy addiction to sugar. After you complete the quiz; results will be sent to you.

Sugar Impacts Your Health

No doubt, your energy is better when your blood sugar is stable. By consuming too much sugar; chances are you’re not eating enough fiber and protein. For more on the right type of food; visit our National Women’s Health and Fitness Day post.

Not only does sugar impact your health; but also leads to other health issues. If your skin has conditions of acne or rosacea, sugar can be the primary reason. In addition, sugar can lead to issues with your emotional and mental health.

Healthy Sugar Substitutes

When you substitute a sugar sweetner; they can reduce calories as well as provide a satisfying taste. In fact, I recommend the following healthier options to try:

  • Stevia – Hence, this is a natural sweetner from South America from the leaves of a shrub. Not only does Stevia have zero calories, but also doesn’t add any extra weight.
  • Xylitol – This is a sugar alcohol extracted from corn or birchwood. Moreover, you can find this in many fruits and vegetables.
  • Coconut Sugar – Consequently, this sugar comes from the sap of a coconut palm.

National Sugar Awareness Reduction

Although it may be hard to cut out sugar completely from your diet; the important thing is to be more aware of what you put in your mouth.

In essence, I have found the best way to reduce sugar in my diet is to make a lot of my food from scratch. For instance, instead of using cans of tomatoes, tomato sauce or jar sauce, make your own spaghetti sauce. When I crave something sweet; I try and cut the portion in half. By not consuming an entire portion; you’re reducing your sugar intake.

As always, I welcome your comments.