To get through her hectic days, Camila Howard used to depend on sweet drinks and nibbles. “I cut it out and then didn’t realise how much sugar was influencing my energy levels.” she says. ” Now, without the sugar crashes, I feel more concentrated and energised.”
Her simple approach to a no-added-sugar diet is to emphasise entire foods and use natural sweeteners creatively. “I reach for plain Greek yoghurt with fresh fruit instead of sweetened yoghurt. I create my own with oats, nuts, and dates instead of sweet granola bars.”
Chia seed pudding is one of her favourite sugar-free breakfasts. “Let it sit overnight after blending chia seeds with almond milk. I toss fresh berries and a bit of cinnamon first thing in the morning; it’s naturally sweet and rather filling.
Camila looks to whole foods for snacking. “A few almonds, some apple slices with almond butter, or even a hard-boiled egg will keep me going without needing sugar.”
She underlines especially the need of reading labels. “Even foods like salad dressings and sauces, sugar lurks in so many things. I carefully review the ingredient list to be sure I’m avoiding needless sweets.
The most important piece of advise Camila offers? Give your taste senses time to change. You become less hungry the less sugar you consume. And you never want to go back once you experience the energy boost!”
