This month, I would like to dare you to join me in a challenge. But, hey, don’t just let me dare you, dare yourselves and join me and other members of the fitness community who are encouraging each other in the annual ‘No Sugar November’ challenge.
It’s quite simple. All you have to do is try not to consume anything that includes sugar as an ingredient. Unfortunately, most people consume far too much added sugar in the form of sweet drinks, candy, pastries, sugary breakfast cereals, and more.
Recently on my social media platforms, I enquired about the willingness of persons who would like to be a part of the month-long challenge and got amazing feedback.
I do not know how many participants would be able to go a full month without consuming sugar but what I do know is that there will be numerous health benefits. Perhaps you are reading this and questioning what are some of the health benefits of cutting out the sweet stuff for November.
Keep reading.
Cutting back on added sugar is important, as excessive consumption is linked to an increased risk of certain health conditions, including fatty liver, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Foods and beverages high in added sugar tend to be rich in calories yet low in filling nutrients like protein and fibre. For this reason, a diet high in sugary foods has been linked to weight gain.
High added sugar intake is also associated with elevated visceral fat, the type of fat that sits around your organs. Having increased visceral fat is strongly correlated to increased disease risk.
Cutting out sources of added sugar may help you lose weight, especially when paired with a nutrient-dense diet that is high in protein and fibre.
THE YES:
Fresh vegetables and fruits
Natural dried fruit (no sugar added to it), For example, dates, raisins, cranberries, dried mango, etc
Whole foods
You can eat healthy carbs like sweet potatoes.
Some TIPS:
Stay hydrated
Keep active
Avoid Alcohol as it will just enhance your sweet cravings
Drink smoothies
Eat healthy fats such as nut butters, or a handful of nuts and seeds
If you want something sweet: eat fruit, dates, a rice cake, have a glass of water.
THE NO
Products with added sugar. Check labels. Nothing with syrups, glucose, stevia
No artificial sweeteners
No honey
No maple syrup
No white bread, white pasta or white rice
No store-bought sauces or dressings which include sugar in their ingredients.
I am now issuing the challenge to you readers. Give it a shot, join the challenge and feel free to email me about your experience.
