Snacks and desserts are very much an integral part of the holiday season. Once you start having them, you are likely to keep eating them. This can result in sugar overload, which will obviously cause health issues and disrupt your celebrations. To avoid such a scenario, you must think of ways to reduce sugar intake before the holiday season begins. For example, opt for a plant-based sugar substitute.
Sugar reduction is the key to your healthy future. Before delving into how you can prioritize reducing sugar, let’s take a look at why you need to do that.
Why Reduce Sugar Intake?
You may experience headaches, agitation, nausea, fatigue, and even muscle cramps because of excessive intake of sugar, which is quite common during the holiday season. It will impact your mental health as well. Research has shown that sugar increases the risk of depression and other mood disorders. Too much of it also reduces your metabolism, makes you insulin-resistant, causes weight gain, increases blood pressure, as well as increases the risk of heart disease.
Sugar reduction helps maintain weight, improves heart and oral health, lowers blood pressure, and keeps you energetic and in great spirits during the holiday season. So, for your overall health, including mental health, you must prioritize reducing sugar intake.
Ways to Limit Sugar Intake
It can be challenging to limit your sugar intake during the holiday season. Sugary foods are delicious and addictive, and you may find it hard to stay away from them. So, it is best to set healthy goals before the holiday season begins and then make sure to stick to them. Here are some of the ways by which you can achieve the goal of sugar reduction.
Decide What Treats You’ll Eat: You do not have to eat everything offered to you. Say no to treats containing higher sugar content, and it is best to look for the ones that are produced using sugar alternatives.
Say No to Sugary Drinks: Soft drinks, cocktails, wine, and flavored drinks contain large amounts of sugar. Say no to such drinks and choose healthier alternatives, for example, sparkling, flavored water or flavored tea. If you are craving soft drinks, wine, or cocktails, drink a large glass of water before going for them. You will then consume less sugar.
Decide on a No-Sugar Day: After overindulging in sugary treats, avoid anything that contains sugar the next day. It allows you to enjoy holiday treats without affecting your health.
Choose Sugar Alternatives: It is the holiday season, so it may be difficult to curb your sweet cravings. Some desserts and snacks contain sugar alternatives such as stevia instead of white or brown sugar. Eat them to satisfy your sweet cravings. Also, you can opt for a bowl of fruits instead of a sweet cake or store-bought cookies.
