Eating for Energy, Part 2 - Less Sugar, More Energy

Less Sugar, More Energy

Wouldn't it be great to have all the energy you need to get through all the shopping, planning, decorating, cooking and busy-ness that is part of the holiday season!  Wouldn't it be awesome to feel rested and relaxed when the day arrives, instead of tired, frazzled or irritable due to low energy?  Well, here is the next great tip to help you have a Holly-Jolly-Christmas:

Avoiding refined sugar is one of the best ways to minimize blood sugar spikes and crashes, which causes a drastic change in energy level. The most effective way to get off sugar is to get to the root cause of your sugar cravings. Here are a few strategies:

1. Eat sweet vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, corn, winter squash, sweet potatoes and onion to satisfy our body’s need for sweet taste (which is normal)

2. Eat meals with low glycemic load to avoid fluctuation in energy and blood sugar level. When we crash, we reach for sugar for quick fixes. Combine whole grains and vegetables (high fiber foods) with a moderate amount of good fats and lean protein.

3. Stay hydrated – thirst is sometimes mistaken as hunger, which leads to cravings.

4. Investigate sugar cravings as a result of nutrient deficiency – e.g. chromium and tryptophan.

5. Nourish your soul – some people crave sweets out of boredom or loneliness.

 I hope you will try some or all of these strategies to reduce your sugar intake.  They will really make a difference quickly, so get started today.  I highly recommend Stevia as a great sweetener, as it is zero calorie, it is all natural, and it does not elevate blood sugar.  


OK, so start getting your energy optimized and have a great December.  If you would like some healthy, whole foods recipes for this season, check out my website recipe section.  You can get you "Healthy Holiday Recipes" eBook there, as well as other free recipes.  Just click on the recipes tab.  


Part 3 will be coming to you in a few days!  Make it a great day.


Carrie Andrews
www.blissfulbalancewellness.com
www.facebook.com/blissfulbalancewellness.com

Healthy Holiday Recipes eBook