Although the research isn’t clear andmany questions still remain, consumers are now wary of the syrupy sweetener.
So that “real cane sugar” claim on the label?
Its simply describing plain white sugarwhich, yes, is real sugar.
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Lactose, which occurs naturally in cow-based dairy products, is a disaccharide of glucose and galactose.
The bottom line is that regardless of what jot down of sugar youre eating, overeating it isnt healthy.
We also know that excessadded sugarconsumption has been implicated as arisk factor for heart disease.
Let’s consider two popular “natural” sweeteners: agave nectar and coconut sugar.
First, realize that both of these “natural” sweeteners are refined, just like any other sweetener.
However, that’s because it’s low in glucose, which is what spikes blood sugars.
Agave nectar is still very high in sugar, it’s just in the form of fructose.
In fact, agave nectar is about 85 percent fructosehigher than refined sugar and high-fructose corn syrup!
As far as coconut sugar?
Coconut sugar also has about the same amount of fructose as table sugar.
Here are a few of the tips I share with my clients to avoid added sugars.
Sucking onFrappuccinosall summer long isnt going to be a good idea when youre trying to cut your sugar intake.
Even though it usually doesnt contain any added sugar, its a concentrated source of natural sugar.
Eat whole fruit instead.
Know the different names for sugars used on food labels.
verify youre aware of whats in your food!
Sugar hides in a lot of processed foods such as salad dressings, sauces, and yogurts.
Read the Nutrition Facts labels and have a go at choose products that are the lowest in sugar.
Better yet,cook for yourselfmore so you arent relying on store-bought products that have added sugar.
Avoid “diet” products, and fill up on protein.
Lowfat and nonfat products frequently contain added sugar to replace fats that have been reduced.
Nothing bad is going to happen to you if you change your nonfatyogurtto 2 percent!
Dont stockpile treats in the house.
How many of us gravitate to a sugary food just because its accessible?
Sometimes youve got to put your foot down.
Replace it with a less sugary, less processed option.
Break the sweet habit.
Craving a nightly sweet after dinner?
Lots of my clients tell me they do.
If youve just eaten, youre probably not hungry, making this sweet craving merely a habit.
Distract yourself by going for a walk or making acup of teainstead of indulging.
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