It’s been 20 days since I started my no added sugar challenge. And believe it or not, I’ve managed to tame (not eliminate completely!) my sweet tooth.
The first few days were obviously the hardest, but I avoided the added sugars. Then came Chicago. I didn’t drink any alcohol, I didn’t drink any sugary drinks in the morning, but I did have dessert at RPM (there is no way anyone can resist the donuts!). And then I had a few bites of the chocolate tart at Osteria Via Stato.
But you know what, I don’t feel guilty, and I certainly don’t regret my decisions. And here’s why. A big reason why I love dessert is because eating it is always a special experience. One you share with other people. These were conscious decisions, not emotional ones. NBD! And really, the donuts at RPM are truly little bites of fluffy heaven!
A recycled picture…but you get the point!
Other than those few bites of dessert, the only other added sugar I’ve been consuming every now and then is honey. When I was in Chicago, I ate oatmeal for breakfast every morning, but because it was completely plain, I had to sweeten it with a tiny amount of honey to make it palatable. Also, I make my own salad dressings now, and I need to add a little bit of honey to balance the acid from the vinegar.
Again, I don’t think of my use of honey as a weakness. It beats the sugary muffin or store bought dressing alternative. Am I right?
Other than that, I’ve stuck with the rest of the challenge. Promise! How you ask? Lots of willpower and fruit. I usually eat a piece of fruit with my lunch. And I’ve been avoiding the after dinner no added sugar treats. If I really want something sweet, I’ll make some banana fro-yo (one frozen banana, a little almond milk, and a little instant coffee all blended together).
Apples, berries, and grapes are my favorites!
Once the challenge is officially over, I’ll share more tips and tricks along with the benefits I’ve experienced.
And for anyone who thinks my little challenge doesn’t count, I beg to differ! I avoided 95% of the desserts available to me in Chicago (cookies, bars, M&MS!, etc.) without having to think twice. And I’ve gone from staring at the bag of chocolate chips sitting in our fridge, to forgetting about it altogether (until right about now). WHO AM I?!?!
More to come…
What’s your favorite no added sugar treat?
