Newsflash, sugar isn’t your friend when it comes to health, a healthy waistline, etc.(but you already knew that, right?). Today I want to talk about some of the reasons why you should be mindful of your sugar consumption, then give you a practical tip AND a challenge that will help change how you look and feel after only 7 days!
Maybe this will all be just a refresher. It’s kind of like a scripture you’ve read a hundred times, but there’s a certain point in your life that it just hits differently. Perhaps that’s where you are right now with sugar. Maybe this is going to be that moment it “hits differently” for you.
Statistically Speaking…
Let’s talk first of all about these staggering statistics. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the average American consumes 150 to 170 pounds of sugar per year. That’s three pounds of sugar a week! If you’re eating processed foods, sugar is oftentimes snuck in with names you’re likely unaware actually mean sugar.
Weight Gain and Obesity
If weight gain and obesity is a concern for you, hang on because there’s a rule of thumb I’ll share in a moment that will revolutionize your relationship with sugar. The fact is that your body does not metabolize glucose like it used to if you’re over 40. Too much sugar is a big reason why so many women deal with the ever increasing waistline as they age. And with the above statistic in mind, we definitely have a choice and some major control over this.
Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Lifestyle choices highly impact our likelihood of developing Type 2 Diabetes and an over consumption of sugar certainly adds to the risk.
Increased Risk of Heart Disease and Certain Types of Cancers
Reducing sugar consumption can also reduce the risk of heart disease and certain kinds of cancers. Simply stated, sugar causes inflammation in the body, and inflammation is at the root cause of so many diseases.
Dental Problems
Dental problems such as cavities and gum disease are also linked to sugar consumption. We’ve been hearing that from our parents since we were young…turns out they were right!
Practical Tips to Reduce Your Sugar Consumption
I’m about to issue a challenge here in just a moment, but let’s start here: Minimize processed foods so you’re not bamboozled by the random sugar names you may be unfamiliar with. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods instead, or as close to their natural state as possible (think baked chicken over fried chicken). And, of course, watch your intake of sweetened drinks like sodas and sports drinks.
It’s time to change the relationship!
Here’s your rule of thumb: consume 5 grams or fewer of sugar per meal. Simple but CRAZY effective! And now for the challenge, do this for 7 days. You will be shocked at how you feel AND how your waistline is affected! If you decide to take me up on this challenge, DM me on IG or get with an accountability buddy and let them know what you’re doing.
Sugar consumption can radically affect our health in so many ways….BUT we have the power to make better choices. Read that again. Let’s take back control of our bodies, our minds, and our health overall and shift our relationship to sugar so we can age amazing!
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