Easter weekend is here and there will be lots of sweet treats to tempt us. But how will all that sugar affect us?
One in three of us has high blood sugar and is at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Too much sugar can also result in energy ‘highs’ and ‘lows’.
High blood sugar can be caused by a number of factors, including frequent snacking on processed foods and drinks, regular dieting and weight gain. Does this sound like you?
Michelle Winspear from Advanced Nutrition in Sanderson Arcade gives some tips to help kick your sugar habit and reduce cravings once and for all.
FRESH IS BEST
Modern British diets rely heavily on processed, convenience foods, which often contain high volumes of sugar. You might be surprised by the sugar content found in everyday food. Tomato ketchup, for example, contains approximately one teaspoon of sugar per 15ml, and some cereals contain three teaspoons per 30g serving. Take time to cook fresh food when possible.
EAT REGULARLY
Missing meals or eating refined foods can play havoc with blood glucose, making you feel hungrier and more likely to stray towards sugary snacks. Three balanced, wholesome meals can prevent blood sugar levels from dropping.
DON’T START THE DAY WITH SUGAR
Breakfasts containing high starch and added sugar will only lead to cravings later in the day.
Eggs, healthy fats and whole grains can help you feel fuller for longer.
Stick to fresh fruit over fruit juice to get your five a day. Smoothies and juices shred or remove the fibre from fruit, exposing us to high levels of fructose, which raises blood sugar.
FEEL ENERGISED
Exercise improves your insulin sensitivity, which helps control blood sugar levels. It is also a good distraction, taking your mind off sugary treats.
TAKE A CHROMIUM SUPPLEMENT
Do you find yourself reaching for sugary snacks and feeling tired and lethargic, particularly in the afternoon? Do you crave sugar after a meal? Are you struggling to lose weight?
Sometimes trying to eat a more healthy diet and exercising isn’t enough, and it can be difficult to find the time. Chromium is a vital mineral recognised as an effective measure to control blood sugar.
We simply don’t get enough chromium in modern diets. It is also depleted from food during cooking, meaning a chromium supplement could be what your body is lacking.
Chromium works with insulin to maintain healthy levels of glucose in the blood stream.
It can help to combat sugar cravings and convert fat, carbohydrates and protein into energy, making it good for weight loss. Try Bio-Chromium as it is 10 times better absorbed by the body than any other form of chromium.
Come and see us at Advanced Nutrition for further advice on health and nutrition.
For more information visit www.bloodsugarcontrol.info