Healthy Ways To Satisfy Sugar Cravings

Hi everyone! It's the time of year when cookies, cakes and other sugar-filled treats abound, and while I am all about treating yourself, sometimes your body needs a break from processed sugar. Too much sugar can lead to heart disease, weight gain, insulin resistance and more... it can even affect how your skin looks! So when you feel like you are craving sugar, try these tips and my tasty recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth, part of my Denise Austin Membership!

3 Tips to Lower Your Sugar Intake

First, be aware of where sugar "hides." Ketchup, BBQ sauce, soda, and canned fruit with added syrup are some common places. Limit these (or eliminate, in the case of soda!) so you aren't overdoing it. One trick I like to do is add a splash of juice to a full glass of water - you still get a hint of sweetness, but without all the sugar (and calories!).

Second, gauge how much sugar you are consuming. Are you adding heaping teaspoons to your coffee or ordering sweetened coffee drinks? How much soda or juice do you drink? Keep a food diary for a week then check to see how much sugar you are actually getting. I have found the more sugar I eat, the more I crave it, so put a limit on how much you want to take in.

Third, find healthier ways to satisfy a sweet tooth. Whole fruits, dark chocolate and molasses are some healthier ways to get that sweet craving taken care of. My Denise Austin Membership has an entire recipe section with good-for-you recipes that will satisfy a sweet tooth and are healthy! Think Berry-Ricotta Waffles, Banana Almond Toast, and Yogurt Crunch. All are simple, filling and satisfying!

Try my Antioxidant Superfood Smoothie, for an added dose of healthy antioxidants and protein to help keep you going!

Antioxidant Superfood Smoothie

• ½ cup berries (raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)
• ½ cup strawberries
• ¼ cup full fat Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup fresh spinach leaves
• 1 tsp chia seeds
• ¼ cup water
• Ice cubes as needed
• Sweeten with maple syrup to taste (optional)
• Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts

1. Combine all ingredients in blender for 30-45 seconds or until smooth, adding ice cubes as needed to thin down. 
2. A wonderful antioxidant rich drink – garnish with walnuts for an extra boost of omega-3 fatty acids!

For more recipes like this, sign up now - and get 30 days free - with my Denise Austin Membership! In addition to recipes and meal plans, I have hundreds of workouts you can do at home or while traveling, including quick and effective 10- and 15-minute workouts. Stay healthy this holiday season!!

Let's live FIT, HAPPY and HEALTHY - together!!

Denise