It’s the new year, and a lot of folks have embarked on resolutions about healthy eating, omitting various things from their diets, some are still mulling over setting goals, and some are already struggling to get back on track after already messing up.
For many diet-minded people, omitting sugar is one of the top resolutions, but can also be one of the most difficult.
Unfortunately for us, too much added sugar can lead to a variety of health issues. Studies show that added sugar makes up to 17% of the average adult’s daily calorie intake. However, dietary guidelines recommend a daily intake of 10% or less.
After concluding a 15-year study on the effects of a high-sugar diet, JAMA Internal Medicine reported that a diet that’s high in sugar increases the risk of death caused by cardiovascular disease.
Sugar cravings… Sometimes, they seem uncontrollable. The heart wants what it wants, when it wants it. Just know that you don’t always have to go for the junk when you need to satisfy a sweet tooth. Nature’s candy can effectively do that job.
A Fruity Solution
That’s right–fruit.
Fruit may also contain sugar, but its sugar content is completely natural and unrefined (which makes it healthier all-around).
These fruit-based treats are exceptional replacements to the sweets that may be good to us, but not good for us.
Frozen Grapes
I discovered this clever recipe from a previous neighbor. They’re kids LOVED frozen grapes, and once I tried them for myself, I understood why. To enjoy a bowl, you just have to wash the grapes and pop them in the freezer for a few hours. They taste just like candy!
Baked Apples, Pears, or Peaches
Who needs pie when baked fruit can be just as delightful? I’m not even kidding. Try slicing up some apples, pears, or peaches and sprinkle them with some cinnamon and brown sugar. Then, put them in the oven for however long you need to keep them in there.
Once they’re done baking, prepare for a party in your mouth.
Nice Cream
If you’ve never tried “nice cream” before, you’re missing out! It’s a vegan, dairy-free version of ice cream that’s made with a frozen fruit base.
There’s no sugar added, either. For health-conscious dessert lovers and the lactose intolerant, nice cream is a definite gift from heaven.
Fresh Fruit
If grabbing a plain piece of fruit is more of your style, do what floats your boat! It’s snackable all by itself. You can even cut them up into fruit skewers or a fruit salad if you’re feeling creative.
Chocolate Covered Fruit
Not just for romantic evenings and special occasions, chocolate dipped fruits are both easy to prepare and satisfyingly delicious.
All you have to do is melt some chocolate chips in a bowl, dip your favorite fruit in the chocolate, and place them on a baking sheet (lined with parchment paper) so they can easily sit in the freezer to dry.
It’s THAT simple. Chocolate complements the following fruits well: strawberries, bananas, oranges, pineapples, and blueberries.
