Too much sugar can not only impact our physique, but it can also have a negative impact on our blood sugar, energy, mood, and gut health. To make matters even worse, sugar can cause you to have more cravings, which can turn this into an endless cycle.
Most of us know that cookies and other treats are high in sugar. And while I encourage my clients to enjoy these indulgences at certain occasions, I also urge them to be conscious to not get stuck in sweets and still aim for healthy-eating choices the majority of the time.
However, sugar can also be found in other places that we might not as easily recognize, and when added to any goodies we’re already consuming, can easily lead to overconsumption.
Check out these five unexpected places to be on the lookout for sugar so you can plan how to mindfully monitor your intake without risking the health effects of consuming too much sugar.
Coffee Run
My team knows that my love language is coffee, so coffee runs and bringing in coffee to share is a regular occurrence at my workplace. Coffee shops love taking advantage of all the nostalgia and emotions that come with the various seasons and often launch some really amazing tasting limited-time drinks. However, most of these drinks contain more sugar than the daily recommended dose — and many contain so much it’s no different than chugging a can of soda.
Pro tip: When it comes to coffee, stick with basic add-ins or consider bringing your own. I’m a big fan of some of the minimally-sweetened almond milk creamers on the market, but also enjoy a coffee with a little heavy cream. Although it is artificial, you could go for a little sugar-free shot of flavor if you really want to add some sweetness. Or, try using a healthy seasonal extra, such as peppermint extract or cinnamon.
Happy Hour
“Does wine actually contain sugar?!” This is a common question I get from clients — and one they’re often surprised by the answer of. The answer is yes: Wine does contain some sugar, and alcohol can absolutely interfere with any weight-loss efforts. It can easily add up quickly, especially times of the year when there are more celebrations, high amounts of stress, or an early onset of darkness which can make it easier to hibernate on the couch and simply sip a glass or two.
Pro tip: Pick your indulgences wisely, and on those occasions, give yourself a limit. If you want to linger with a drink in hand, opt for a sparkling soda water with lime. If you prefer cocktails, choose calorie-free mixers. All alcohol counts, so sip slowly and consume water in between drinks.
Presents
Food tends to be a universally appealing gift. It’s easy and something many of us value. Whether it’s a hostess gift or holiday present, there are a ton of opportunities to be given food as a present — and often they tend to be sweeter treats, not a bunch of veggies. Although it’s OK to enjoy some sugar-containing foods if you get as a thoughtful gift, try to assess the frequency of their availability (likely higher than normal if you’re getting around a holiday, for example) and ration the ones that will be the most meaningful.
Pro tip: It might not be easy, but try to gift non-food items. If you’re given food (and it’s not something that will promote your health) regift, donate, toss, or trial and share. One of the coaches on my team said her mother used to give a piece of exotic fruit in place of candy in her stocking growing up — try to be creative and think outside the box.
The Work Break Room
Navigating away from temptations at work is a common topic I work through with my clients when we’re identifying healthy-eating strategies. It’s not uncommon for coworkers to be bring in treats to share. One thing I remind my clients of to help reframe their mindset is that often people are bringing food they’ve been gifted and want to get rid of so they don’t eat it. You don’t have to feel any guilt or obligation to consume what’s been brought in.
Pro tip: Snap a picture of it. We’ve seen this tactic work with some of our 60day Challenge participants: Challengers snap a picture of the food and share it with their group so others can help motivate and support them so they don’t feel alone with their healthy-eating habits.
Keeping a tub of protein powder at your desk for a quick shake (when cravings hit) can also be a great tactic. You can also practice saying “No thank you,” and always have the choice to toss anything that’s been personally gifted to you but you don’t want to consume.
Seasonal Foods
Gingerbread protein bars, candy canes, dark chocolate granola bars, pumpkin-spice cereal — food companies do a great job of capitalizing on the season to create limited-edition options. Although many of these processed starches are now being marketed as containing no artificial ingredients, it doesn’t mean they are healthy. In fact, they’re often the biggest offenders of adding additional sugar.
Pro tip: Check the label and look for less than 5 grams of sugar per serving (and only eat one serving). Even better, make your own seasonal foods so you can control the added ingredients. One of my favorite things to make to snack on is my own granola bars (see recipe below).
Overall, just know that a high sugar intake is likely in our food culture if you’re not aware of and intentional about your consumption, and can easily elevate even higher during certain times of year when in seasons of celebration. Choose mindfully, aim for balance, and where you can, make your own healthier versions of favorite goodies.
Granola Bars Three Ways
Makes six servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes, including 30 minutes refrigeration time
Ingredients
For the granola bars:
- 2 cups raw, certified gluten-free oats
- 1 tsp. cinnamon
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cups coconut oil
- 1 cup dates, pitted and soaked in boiling water for 5 minutes
For flavor options:
- Cranberry pecan: 1/4 cup dried cranberries, 1/4 cup pecans
- Blueberry muffin: 1/4 cup dried blueberries, 2 tsp. lemon zest
- Coconut lime: 1/2 cup dried, unsweetened coconut flakes, 2 tsp. lime zest
Directions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine oats, cinnamon, and flavor options if desired.
- In the base of a blender, combine remaining ingredients and pulse until well combined. Add to oat mixture.
- In an 8×8 baking dish that has been greased with coconut oil, pat out ingredients and refrigerate for 30 minutes, until firm.
- Cut into 6 equal-sized rectangular pieces.
Nutritional Info: Calories: 230 grams | Sugar: 6 grams | Fat: 16 grams | Carbs: 18 grams | Fiber: 4 grams | Protein: 5 grams
(Nutrition information does not include added flavor options.)
