We all know consuming too much sugar can help pile on the pounds – and being overweight can greatly increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure, and even of having a stroke. SmartPoints® is based on the most up-to-date science on sugar, so following the plan will go a long way to keeping your intake under control. But there are some other straightforward ways to cut down. These tips will help...
- Do it gradually
Help your tastebuds adjust to your new lower-sugar regime. Start by cutting down the amount in your tea or coffee and diluting fruit juice with sparkling water.
- Eat more veg!
Add sweet vegetables to your baking and sauces to help cut down on the sugar. Squash, parsnips, carrots, beetroot and sweet potatoes all work well.
- Make like Sherlock
Turn detective to find sugar hiding on labels under a pseudonym. It could be listed as glucose, fructose, corn syrup, maltose, dextrose or fruit syrup.
- Beware alcoholic drinks
Your favourite tipple could be packing in the sugar, so choose wisely. A half litre of sweet cider has 11 SmartPoints! A half litre of lager, meanwhile, has just 5 SmartPoints. A vodka and cranberry juice has 9 SmartPoints, compared with 2 SmartPoints for vodka with a diet mixer.
- Get smart with flavour
Shake cinnamon over puddings, porridge and lattes to add a naturally sweet flavour without any sugar.