National Sugar Awareness Week already started on January 14th. However, it doesn’t matter the date this started, as sugar is an ingredient in so many food. And, bottom line is it is bad for our health.
National Sugar Awareness Week
First and foremost, let’s talk about the impact this has on our overall health.
Of course, the leading cause of death is heart disease. Now, we know not only is this ingredient bad for you; but also leads to medical conditions such as obesity and diabetes.
National Sugar Awareness Health Issues
When you think about this ingredient, there are so many reasons it leads to health problems. So, let’s look at some of the reasons why this is bad for you.
- Indeed, obesity is a problem worldwide. This ingredient can be found in everything from sodas, sweets to many foods.
- Because heart disease is the number one cause of death; food with high amounts of sugar can lead to clogging of our arteries. To read more about this; check out my American Heart Month February post.
- Any food high in sugar can increase problems in developing acne.
- Due to sugar being one of the leading causes in diabetes; it is important to reduce our sugar intake.
- Did you know that beverages and food high in sugar can lead to certain types of cancer? There have been links to small intestine cancer, esophageal and pleural cancer with sugar intake.
- Also, sugar is known to have an impact on our mental health.
- In addition, foods high in sugar can cause a problem in our blood pressure. Many think by having something sweet, it will increase your energy. But, by having healthier snacks such as almonds; you’re able to keep your energy stable.
- Nevertheless, sugar can cause other health problems such as dental cavities, fatty liver, kidney disease and has been known to be linked to dementia. To read more about this, check out my World Alzheimer’s Month post.
National Sugar Awareness Week Challenge
So, there is a challenge you can try. Can you skip eating sugar for a day? Well, this challenge is asking people to give up eating sugar for five days. By taking this quiz, you can learn how this is impacting your health.
Are you ready to take the quiz? Click on this link and begin your journey to eating healthier?
National Sugar Awareness Tips
In conclusion, get ready to challenge yourself and try eating more fiber and protein. Hence, there are many substitutes now available to satisfy your craving.
By making a few small changes in your diet, you can begin to reduce sugar from your diet. When you’re craving a sweet, cut it in 1/2 or better yet, cut it in a 1/3.
Try using the following substitutions as a healthier alternative to sugar:
- Coconut Sugar – For an all natural, yet sweet taste without the use of dangerous chemicals; try this product below. In my opinion, this product is great for any coffee drinker or as a substitute to use for brown sugar..
- Stevia – For an all natural, yet gluten-free, try this substitute to satisfy your taste for sugar.
Also, when you use products from a can or jar; there may be a lot of sugar. By making it fresh, you’re eliminating a certain amount of sugar. For instance, when I make tomato sauce; I make it from scratch. Just by avoiding cans of tomatoes; you’re reducing some of the sugar.
Finally, swap out soda for water.
Just by making a few small changes in your diet, you will see an improvement in your health.
As always, I welcome your comments.
Happy National Sugar Awareness Week!
