The Best Way to Naturally Wean Off Sugar

The Best Way to Naturally Wean Off Sugar
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Naturally weaning off sugar will provide many health benefits for the body. The American Diabetes Association cautions that type 2 diabetes is on the upswing in America, even among youngsters. A focus on natural foods such as grains, fruits and vegetables will help the body maintain health. Since high-sugar commercial foods can cause the blood sugar to spike, if you can wean yourself off sugar, you'll be improving your chances of a long, healthy life.

Step 1

Make a list of high-sugar foods that are on the "do not eat" list. Avoid those foods and fast-food places that offer tempting high-sugar foods. Inform friends and family that you are trying to avoid sugar. Ask them to encourage you and to avoid tempting you with sugary treats.

Step 2

Clear your home of any high-sugar foods. Keep only healthy foods in the home. Get rid of high-sugar cereals, desserts, ice cream and other sugar-laden treats. Inform the family or others in the home that high-sugar foods are now banned and that they should not bring them into the home.

Step 3

Keep the home stocked with healthy snacks such as chopped-up vegetables and fruits. When purchasing canned fruits, chose those with natural juices, no sugar added. Air-popped popcorn is another easy-to-make snack to replace sugary treats.

Step 4

To quell sugar urges, go for a walk when the urge to nibble on sweets arises. Build healthy habits such as exercise to replace sitting around snacking on unhealthy, sugary treats. Walking helps soothe and calm the mind.

Step 5

When eating out, avoid desserts and other high-sugar items. Portions in restaurants are often over-sized. If temptation arises, split a dessert with someone. Do not consume an immense amount of sugar in one dessert.

Tips and Warnings

  • Focus on the positive goals for a healthier life. Give yourself rewards (not food) for lessening the amount of sugar consumed.
  • Talk to your doctor before making any modifications to the diet such as decreasing sugar intake. Start any new health program gradually and give the body time to adjust.

References

Article reviewed by Liz Smith Last updated on: Jun 16, 2011

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