I’m in the middle of a terrible break-up – a disengagement with sugar. I’ve known for a while that this relationship needed to end – but like many people, I had faith that it would turn around and that drastic measures wouldn’t need to be taken. I have been naive.

My love of sugar comes in many forms: refined, grains, sweet breads, Swedish fish candy- and it has crept into my life everywhere. By utilizing these 5 rules, I am taking control of my sugar intake and making an intention to leading a healthier life!

1. Keep a food journal. Look at where the hidden sugars are lying. In your hot drinks, in yogurt, in spaghetti sauce, grain intake.

2. Daily recommended sugar intake for a female is 25 grams of sugar. That’s roughly 9 teaspoons of sugar a day. The average American keeps nearly twice that or even three times the amount which puts the person at risk for a slew of illnesses including diabetes, heart disease and autoimmune disorders. (site: http://nutritiondata.self.com/)

3. Plan your meals for the week. When you are in charge of your meal plan – you are making a conscious thought to be more healthy. In turn – throughout the week you will make healthier choices and not pick sugar laden things on-the-go.

4. Buy whole foods – that have no added ingredients. If you choose to buy a processed food, choose an item that sugar isn’t one of the first 3 ingredients.

5. Check the glycemic index of commonly eaten foods in your diet. Try to choose items that has a glycemix index of less that 50. (on a scale of 100) You can check items here: http://www.glycemicindex.com/

Cheers to a nourishing and healthy new year!

Terri Eaton is a massage therapist and Outreach Manager at SenSpa Wellness Center as well as a wellness enthusiast. This blog provides general information and discussion about medicine, health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice.

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