This week I am sharing my views on the great sugar debate.
So...should we quit sugar? Is sugar to blame? Is sugar making us sick? Do I need to quit sugar to lose weight?
Sugar seems to be the new 'super villain', being blamed for all our health ailments. It is true that refined sugars provide no nutritional value and may be rightly to blame for some things. However, when it comes to natural sugars found in whole foods, I believe it is a different story.
Sugar has been instrumental to our survival, just the right amount of sweetness in fruit signals the food is ripe and ready to eat. Natural sugar found in food like fruits, vegetables and dairy products contain many essential nutrients.
Here are a few of my go-to natural sweeteners along with my delicious Cashew Gaytime Cheesecake that is completely refined sugar free, dairy free and gluten free.
Dates - Are high in fibre, which is great as fibre slows down digestion and prevents a blood sugar spike. I am a big fan of the Changing Habits Dates ,these dates are organically grown without any hidden nasties.
Rapadura Sugar - Is unrefined cane sugar which is dried at low temperatures to maintain nutritional properties and there is no other processing involved; unlike other sugars that can be highly processed, refined and bleached. I buy my Rapadura sugar here.
Rice Malt Syrup - There are arguments both for and against rice malt syrup. I use a rice malt syrup that is made from 100% organic brown rice and does not include inorganic arsenic from herbicides and pesticides. It is made through culturing rice and then cooked until it becomes a syrup. I like it as I find it provides me with a steady energy supply and does not cause any gastric distress.
It is so easy to get confused and overwhelmed with all the conflicting information and diet trends out there. If you need a little extra help or help applying what you already know about nutrition and health I can help. I support my clients to achieve long term consistency with their healthy lifestyle and help put their knowledge into action.
I offer one-on-one Functional Nutrition Coaching online and face to face. You can contact me here to find out more.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this email is for informational purposes only. Functional Health Canberra does not treat, diagnose or cure any condition. Information is not intended to replace medical professional advice. Always consult your physician before any significant diet and lifestyle changes.