Tag: Sugar

Erythritol, a sugar alcohol, is a commonly used ingredient added to foods that call themselves sugar free or ones that contain no added sugar....

Healthy eating can seem very complicated. Most of us were taught about the food pyramid in school, but it didn’t really make things any...

There is a lot of emphasis these days on giving up sugar and people the world over, are kicking the sugar habit. Well, at...

Weight loss depends on calorie intake. And, cutting calories can lead to cravings and overeating. Instead, opt for diet-friendly food substitutes. Reduced fat milk and light salad dressings cut down on calories. Fresh fruits and juices have more fiber and nutrients than canned options. Nuts, seeds, and baked chips are healthier snack options. Whole grains promote satiety. Lastly, natural sweeteners such as maple syrup, honey, and stevia can help fight sugar cravings effectively.

Sugar is often used as a sweetening agent in various foods across the world. This is its more obvious claim to fame. Its taste...

Wine has ellagic acid, a natural chemical, that slows down fat cell growth. A low-to-moderate intake, or less than 3 glasses of wine a day, is linked to a lower risk of obesity. However, alcohol is still empty calories, so be mindful of the rest of your diet. Some brands might have added sugar for taste. If you want to drink wine, consider skipping dessert. Water, fruit smoothies, and green tea are other healthier choices for weight loss.

When you wake up in the morning, your stomach is in a more delicate state than usual. Because it's completely devoid of any food,...

There are two main hunger hormones. Ghrelin which increases appetite and leptin which suppresses it. Their levels are affected by stress, sleep, and other factors. For instance, ghrelin is better controlled by protein and complex carbs than fat. Ghrelin may increase when one is stressed. Levels of leptin tend to drop when one is sleep deprived. By controlling these factors, you can maintain control of your appetite.

Added sugar increases your risk of death due to heart disease and obesity! To go on a sugar-free diet, it's important to start slow and find natural alternatives to added sugar (like honey, maple syrup, and coconut sugar). By avoiding cookies, candies, wheat flour, aerated drinks and packaged foods, you can significantly cut down the amount of added sugar you consume.

Natural sweeteners such as stevia and licorice are good for imparting flavor and managing diabetes, liver function, and even dental caries. Coconut flakes and sugar can be used for their mineral density. Cinnamon is an excellent anti-diabetic spice and adds its share of flavor. Cocoa powder makes your mocha extra strong and also serves as a mood enhancer. Vanilla beans can add a characteristic floral flavor to coffee. Some unorthodox ways could be to add sea salt and collagen powder, which makes the coffee sweeter with a creamy texture.

Coffee has many health benefits, but not if you add cream and sugar. A healthier option is pure vanilla extract, a classic flavor. Love mocha? Add a teaspoon of antioxidant-rich cocoa powder. For a fat-burning boost, spice things up with a dash of cayenne. Cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger offer anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative benefits. Maple syrup is a great alternative to refined white sugar. Don’t hesitate to mix and match ingredients for even more flavors.

For many years now, healthcare experts have been warning us about how a high-sugar diet can lead to weight gain, obesity, diabetes, and other health conditions. But, recent studies have revealed an alarming fact. A high-sugar diet can also cause anxiety and depression besides other mood disorders. Although sugary foods elevate our mood when we are down, these effects are temporary and over time, they cause mental health conditions.

Inulin is a water-soluble fiber that has low glycemic index. Being a fiber, it serves as a prebiotic and serves as a breeding ground for probiotic bacteria that are essential for good gut health. Inulin is also been widely used as a healthy alternative to refined sugar. It can also increase calcium absorption thereby lowering the risk of osteoporosis in girls and post-menopausal women.

Dieting is the best way to beat inflammation. Skip added sugar, an ingredient that increases pro-inflammatory cytokines. Remember, artificial sweeteners aren’t any better, as the gut gets inflamed. These can be in store-bought condiments! So, instead, make your own dishes or look for versions without added sugar and salt. Other foods that promote inflammation include refined starches and red meat. For anti-inflammatory benefits, eat whole grains, fruits, veggies, and omega-3 fats.

Swap refined sugar with a pinch of cinnamon for your morning cup o’ joe. Add it to your oatmeal as well. Spread Grade B maple syrup on pancakes, waffles, and use it as a sauce for baking. Add banana puree to sweeten smoothies and desserts. You could build a puree by mashing a banana and mixing it water. You could also swap all your refined sugar choices with coconut sugar.