Despite recent reports, Sugar may not be the enemy
With recent reports claiming sugar is just as toxic and addictive as some drugs, that second cookie might not be looking so good right now. But before you toss your favorite treats out the window, know that sugar does not have to be your personal kryptonite.
The fact is, going Scarlet Letter on sugar isn’t the answer.
“Calling any single ingredient or food ‘toxic’ perpetuates the notion of good and bad foods and drinks,” says nutrition consult Jessica Fishman Levinson. And, as you likely already know, here at The Beauty Bean we’re not too keen on food rules. Rather, as Michael Pollan says, “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” Other than that, indulge, enjoy and experience.
Dealing with a serious sweet tooth over there? It’s all about making healthier choices, not deprivation.
Don’t be fooled, sugar is not by any means nutritious but Jackie Keller, Founding Director of NutriFit, LLC advises to pick and choose your sugars instead of completely avoiding them altogether.
Healthy Sugar Alternatives
When You’re Craving Baked Goods… When you’re lusting for a chewy cookie or piece of pie, try a vegan alternative. Although they are by no means any more nutritious, vegan treats have become an increasingly popular sweet substitute since many vegan treats contain a lower-glycemic index than most baked goods making them a popular lower sugar alternative.
Food Cravings: Understand Why You Feel the Way You Do
When You’re Craving Soda… Soda cravings can be pesky but if you don’t want to ditch a refreshing beverage, try switching to tea. “Making a pitcher of iced tea to have on hand is easy: just steep about 10 tea bags in simmering (not quite boiling to avoid bitterness) water for five minutes. Strain tea or remove tea bags, let cool and then refrigerate until ready to serve,” says Aurelie Bessiere, President of Le Palais des Thes.
When You’re Craving Chocolate… Jessica Fishman Levinson, dietician and founder of Nutritioulicious.com says that a little dark chocolate goes a long way. “Savor a piece of 70% cocoa dark chocolate. A little bit goes a long way, plus you’ll get some antioxidant benefits.” Similarly, Jackie Keller tells us, “A single serving of dark chocolate has been proven to have heart-healthy benefits, and is great for the psyche…Our clients report that they are happier, and more compliant with a healthy meal plan, all day long.”
A few more reasons to eat more chocolate!
When You’re Craving Candy… Pinning for candy mid-day? “Grab a piece of fruit instead, just make sure it’s in season as fruit that’s out of season won’t be as sweet, so your cravings won’t be tamed. The added benefit of whole fruit is fiber, which will satiate you for longer than a glass of juice or those jelly beans you would have munched on,” Jessica Fishman Levinson adds.
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