Is it just me, or have your sugar cravings been on high alert since Halloween? I definitely overdid it on the not-so-fun-sized chocolate bars… and I’m still smuggling them from my kids’ loot. Help! Candy is an obvious evil (that’s why we’re supposed to eat it in moderation), but there are lots of foods with surprisingly high amounts of sugar you’re probably scarfing back without even realizing. Here are 3 to watch out for…
1) Culprit: Fat-Free Milk
Who knew milk contained sugar. One cup of the calcium-rich drink has 90 calories, 0 g fat and 11 g sugars. Plus, when you eliminate fat from milk, you speed up the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream… which can kick cravings into high gear.
Smarter choice: Unsweetened Almond Milk
Sure it has 3 g fat, but 1 cup has less than half the calories of milk (only 40!) and 0 g sugars.
2) Culprit: Protein Bars
Many protein bars have as much sugar as a snickers, We’re talking 24 grams sugar per bar – that’s 6 teaspoons! Definitely read the label first and avoid bars with excess sugars. Bonus if you can pronounce all the ingredients.
Smarter choice: Bars made with whole foods
When you do reach for a bar, opt for one made with whole ingredients (like nuts) that’s low in sugar and high in fiber. Two of our faves are Kind Healthy Grains Bars (they’re packed with whole grains) and Health Warrior Chia Bars (the coconut bar has just 4 grams sugar).
3) Culprit: Organic Ketchup
Yes, it has the organic seal, but that doesn’t make the added sugar any better for you. Sugar is sugar. Just one tablespoon of the condiment contains 20 calories and a teaspoon of sugar.
Smarter choice: Spicy Brown Mustard
Made of distilled vinegar, mustard seed, salt and spices, you can’t go wrong with this 0 calorie condiment.
