Day 8: Sugar

Sugar

This program is designed to limit added and/or hidden sugars. There is no way to eliminate all sugar. There are small amounts in veggies and even the allowable fruits and products we use during this program (berries, apples, protein shake mix).

So let’s keep it in perspective. We need some sugar to live. All foods are ultimately converted into glucose, whether they are fats, proteins, or carbohydrates including complex carbohydrates or simple sugars. Glucose is a simple sugar that all cells use for energy and is the main source of fuel for cells and tissues of the body, including the brain and muscles. Your body needs glucose, so you want to give it what it needs to stay fueled. Keeping in mind we as a species have gone way overboard and don’t even realize how far. Refined white sugar is devoid of nutrients.

What can you use during 30 Days to Healthy Living?

Stevia: Stevia is an herb derived from the stevia plant. Stevia in its pure liquid form is a good choice for a sweetener. It contains no fructose. It has been used for centuries. You can put it in any drink and bake with it. 1 tsp of liquid stevia = 1 cup of sugar. Truvia and other powdered forms are processed, bleached and have GMO erythritol. “NOW” is a brand that you can order on Amazon and find in some health food stores. Watch for those stevia blends that are popping up everywhere (even Starbucks).

Sweeteners you can use SPARINGLY AFTER your 30 Days

Honey: Most honey is 53% fructose, with 20-30% glucose and the rest water. The problem is it still acts like sugar in your body when it is cooked or added to tea. The nutritional benefits that you may be getting are killed off and most of us are buying processed honey which has no additional benefits at all.

Coconut Palm Sugar: Coconut sugar is lower at 40% fructose and does contain some fiber and nutrients but it still reacts in your body like sugar.

Sugar alcohols: xylitol, sorbitol, maltitol, erythritol. These contain fewer calories and are not completely absorbed in your small intestine. The non-GMO fermented form of erythritol has been found to be the best of these but it’s rarely found in products that way.

Sweeteners your should ALWAYS AVOID

Agave Syrup: It is highly processed and is usually 80% fructose.

High fructose corn syrup: 55% fructose.

Sucralose, Aspartame and Saccharin: Artificial sweeteners are highly processed.
















◊These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Why Sugar Isn't Always Bad
w/Dr. Tanda Cook