When it comes to losing weight, for the majority of us, we tend to fixate on calories in versus calories out; we tend to avoid foods high in saturated fat, but what about foods that are high in sugar? These foods not only add to our waistline but also jeopardizes our overall health. According to a study published in JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), excess sugar can shorten your life.
The study explored how sugar contributes to cardiovascular disease as well as obesity and diabetes. Also, it further illustrates how adopting a low or sugar-free diet can help you simultaneously shed pounds while avoiding potential health risks. In this article, we will focus on some of the foods that you should abstain from in order to become a healthier you.
WANT TO LOSE WEIGHT FAST? A NO SUGAR DIET IS THE ANSWER
We’ve all been there, right? We’ve spent countless hours at the gym, doing the most intense workouts we have ever done, only to find that our physique looks the same as it did a month ago, two months ago. Nothing has changed, and worse, we are left feeling disheartened. It’s not a lack of conviction or dedication; it’s your diet. Here are a few of staples that you should include in your diet to will help you realize your fitness and overall health goals:
- Lean meats
- Fresh vegetables
- Whole grains
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Low-fat dairy products
Is this an overarching list of food staples that will completely transform your life? Absolutely not, there are many more that did not make it into this article. However, these are some of the foods that have helped fast-track the health and fitness goals for those seeking to become the best version of themselves possible.
NO SUGAR DIET WEIGHT LOSS
You may have noticed that fresh fruits were not part of the healthy food listicle; it’s for a good reason. Fruit can be part of your no sugar diet; they are naturally sweet, and they don’t cause the health problems typical of foods containing added sugars. Therefore, if you’re looking for a way to satisfy your sweet tooth, you’re encouraged to swap the pastries for an apple, orange, banana, or any fruit that your heart desires. Also, fruit contains vitamins, fiber, and nutrients that pastries typically do not.
HIDDEN SUGARS
Unbeknownst to many, there is sugar in many of the foods that we eat. So, while we are eschewing pastries and the like, we should reduce or avoid the following food items:
- Barbecue sauce
- Ketchup
- Granola bars
- Salad dressings
Again, is this an all-encompassing list of foods to avoid? The answer is a resounding no. This list is, moreover, are some of the more common food items that many people consume, thinking they’re doing right by their bodies. In actuality, it is the contrary; these food items can sabotage your health and fitness goals. How so, you ask? To help put all of this into context, let’s take a look at ketchup.
Although ketchup seems harmless, it can contain upwards of 40 grams of sugar per cup, and the same holds true for barbeque sauces, marinades, and many salad dressings. So, you’re encouraged to start reading the ingredient list on some of your favorite sauces before drizzling them on to your foods.
A NO SUGAR DIET DOESN’T MEAN TASTELESS FOOD
Eating healthy does not mean you have to resign yourself to a no sugar diet or flavorless, unsatisfying foods. You just have to be creative and choose foods that are naturally flavorful. I know, easier said than done, right? Well, it really is just that easy. The remainder of this article will be dedicated to providing you with a “full day of eating” sample that you can implement in your own life.
MAKE BREAKFAST PART OF YOUR NO SUGAR DIET
You’ve heard this time and time again; breakfast is the most important meal of the day. There is a whole lot of truth is that aphorism. Therefore, why not start your morning with some delicious scrambled eggs mixed with spinach and tomatoes. This breakfast provides you with protein, fiber, and natural sweetness.
A NO SUGAR DIET PLAN FOR LUNCH
Okay, so you started your morning off on a good foot, but what about when lunchtime rolls around? You should continue with your no sugar diet plan, which can include a serving of lean meat (preferably chicken breast) and a small salad. However, instead of drenching your salad in sugar-ladened dressing, you can use vinegar and olive oil for added taste.
DINNERTIME
When dinnertime rolls around, there’s no need to derail a whole day’s worth of healthy eating. So, why not round out your day with some protein-packed salmon and steamed veggies for dinner. This delicious combo is satisfying and perfectly complements your no sugar diet weight loss regimen.
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