Why Eat Less Sugar
We each have personal reasons that motivate us to choose a healthier lifestyle; whether to address a specific health challenge, a desire to remain active, or simply to feel better.
More than 20 years ago I was involved in research to learn more about the personal reasons people choose to reduce or eliminate sugar from their diets and what sugar substitutes they choose. From that experience, there are two people who still stand out to me. Two women, both in their mid-50s at the time, who were choosing to pursue a healthy lifestyle that helps them enjoy the people and activities important to them.
The first woman had recently lost more than 30 pounds. As she talked about her motivation to eat better and lose weight, she was asked the primary reason she chose to pursue a change. She responded that she simply wanted to be able to get up off the floor after playing with her grandchild.
The second woman was dressed to play tennis, someone living an active, athletic lifestyle. When asked about her motivation, she responded that she was a long time tennis player and careful about what she eats so that she can continue to feel well and remain active as she gets older.
Each woman chose a healthy lifestyle that fits her goals.
Over the years, different foods that affect a healthy lifestyle have come under scrutiny; fats, oils, sugar. Though the pros and cons of fats and oils have varied, a singular focus on sugar has remained consistent. The impact excessive sugar consumption has on the body, and why reducing sugar is so beneficial to our health and wellbeing, has continued to be a focal point among dietitians and the wellness community.
Too much sugar contributes to chronic inflammation that is linked to a number of serious illnesses such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes and strokes. In fact, The Cleveland Clinic identifies sugar as one of five foods that can contribute to chronic inflammation. Additionally, an excess of sugar contributes to weight gain. To be in our best health as we age, it is especially important to reduce consumption of foods that promote inflammation, particularly foods with added sugars.
We are pleased to see a growing number of people enjoy llinea™ monk fruit as a simple way to reduce sugar use while seeking the sweet taste they love in their drinks and foods.
If you’re looking for a delicious breakfast that will keep you satisfied for hours, try mixing unsweetened, Greek yogurt with six drops of llinea™ and ⅓ cup raw oats. Top it with fresh fruit and Bon Appetit!
For additional fabulous recipes to reduce sugar use, check out our recipe guide. From breakfast to dessert and everything in between, we’ve got you covered!
Whatever our motivations to pursue a healthy lifestyle, being aware of the impact of the foods we eat helps us choose better options, enabling us to live more active, healthy lives.
Enjoy!!!
Bibliography
The Cleveland Clinic, 2020, https://health.clevelandclinic.org/5-foods-that-can-cause-inflammation/.