Low Sugar Diet: 6 Benefits of Going on a Sugar Detox

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A plate full of fresh nutritious veggies and fruits

A low sugar diet can considerably enhance one’s health and promote healthy weight loss. But, do we really know the physical, mental and psychological challenges this diet might pose?

Sugar is a complex carbohydrate [1]Harvard T.H. Chan: Carbohydrates and Blood Sugar found in many foods. It is an essential part of our diet and provides our bodies with energy. Much loved and equally villainized, this sweet element of our everyday diets has its share of benefits and risks.

Sugar consumption has been linked to a variety of health risks, including obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, sugar can also have some benefits, such as providing a quick source of energy or helping to regulate sugar levels in the blood. 

The average American consumes about 22 teaspoons of sugar per day, which can lead to some serious health problems. A healthy diet should have no more than six to nine teaspoons of sugar per day.

A low sugar diet is a great way to improve your health and lose weight. There are many benefits to following a low sugar diet, including improved energy levels, improvement in heart and brain health, better mental focus, and reduced inflammation. However, there are some drawbacks to consider before starting a low sugar diet plan. A detailed look at the principles, parameters, pros, and cons of a low sugar diet can help you make more informed and healthy choices when stepping on a diet.

What is a low sugar diet, and what are its benefits?

A low-sugar diet limits sugar intake by discouraging the consumption of unhealthy processed foods, high-sugar foods, and sugary drinks. Instead, a low-sugar diet encourages the consumption of unprocessed whole foods. While there is no standard definition of a low sugar diet, most low sugar diet guidelines recommend reducing the intake of added sugars to less than 10% of total daily calories.

However, one needs to understand that not all sugars we consume are the same. There are two types of sugars: Natural sugars and added sugars. Added sugars are those that are added to food during processing, or at home, such as honey or syrup. Natural sugars [2]Harvard University: Natural and Added Sugars: Two Sides of the Same Coin, such as those found in fruit, are not considered to be added sugars.

Since the consumption of sugar is linked to several health problems, a low sugar diet automatically yields several health benefits. These include improved blood sugar control, weight loss, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition, a low sugar diet focuses on eating whole foods, which in turn can also help to increase nutrient intake and reduce the likelihood of nutrient deficiencies. Let’s take a closer look at some of the health benefits of a low sugar diet:

Improved blood sugar control:

Reducing sugar consumption can help to improve sugar levels in the blood of both diabetics and non-diabetics. In fact, one study showed that following a low sugar diet for just two weeks improved blood sugar control in non-diabetics as much as medication. By reducing the consumption of all forms of added sugar(and hidden sugars as well) and by simultaneously curbing carbohydrate intake, a low sugar diet automatically brings sugar levels down to healthy levels.

Weight loss:

Since sugar is a major source of calories in the diet, reducing sugar intake can lead to weight loss. In fact, one study showed that replacing sugar-sweetened beverages with water led to an average weight loss of four pounds over a 12-week period.

Reduced risk of heart disease:

Consuming too much sugar can lead to an increase in triglycerides, a type of fat that is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. A low sugar diet can help to lower triglyceride levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Often foods that are high in sugar come with other health risks like saturated fats, unhealthy carbohydrates, and so on. All of these can directly or indirectly affect cardiovascular health. Reducing the consumption of packaged foods with added sugars, sugary beverages, or even sugar and fat-laden home foods can inadvertently result in better heart health.

Blood pressure:

Recent studies have started to link sugar consumption to high blood pressure. Excess sugar in the body can cause the body to hold on to salt by causing your kidneys to retain water and sodium. This in turn can lead to high blood pressure. Reducing sugar intake will indirectly end up lowering blood pressure levels as well.

Reduced inflammation:

Inflammation is a major factor in many chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. Sugar can contribute to inflammation by increasing levels of certain inflammatory markers in the blood. A low sugar diet can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

May improve mental health:

A high sugar diet has been linked to an increased risk of depression, while a low sugar diet may protect against it. In one study, people who ate the most sugar were 23% more likely to develop depression than those who ate the least sugar.

Risks and drawbacks of following a low sugar diet

It is true that our sugar intake might be the reason behind many of the health problems that we suffer. It may even worsen pre-existing conditions like type II diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. However, before we completely eliminate sugar from our diets, it is important to understand that sugar does have some health benefits. In small amounts, sugar can help to:

  • Improve mental performance
  • Provide energy
  • Provide reserve energy
  • Source of nutrients(sugar is often just one small part of the food we eat)
  • Reduce stress

Lowering sugar intake then comes with its own set of problems. There are some potential drawbacks to following a low sugar diet as with any diet. These include:

Potential for nutrient deficiencies:

A low sugar diet can lead to nutrient deficiencies if not done correctly. When you cut sugar, you also eliminate many of the foods that are high in nutrients, such as fruits and vegetables. To avoid nutrient deficiencies, it is important to ensure that you are getting enough vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from other sources.

May cause cravings and hunger:

Eliminating sugar from your diet can cause cravings and hunger. This is because sugar provides quick energy that the body can easily use. When you cut sugar, your body may crave foods that give it a quick burst of energy. To avoid this, it is important to eat balanced meals and snacks that contain protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.

May lead to compensatory eating and weight gain:

Cutting out sugar may lead to an increase in weight if you do not replace it with other healthy foods. This is because of compensatory behaviors. When you eliminate sugar and do not replace it with other healthy options, you may consume more calories than you need. Worse still, you may eat unhealthy foods high in hidden sugar, salts, and unhealthy, empty calories.

May lead to physical and mental health issues:

A low sugar diet can lead to mental and physical health issues if not done correctly. As mentioned above, sugar is usually consumed as part of a larger food. When you cut sugar, you also eliminate many of the other nutrients that the food provides. This can lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Our bodies and brains require all of these food and nutrient groups for optimal health and functioning. Additionally, cutting sugar can lead to more sugar cravings and hunger, which can cause stress and lead to overeating.

Is it safe to go on a complete sugar-free diet?

Complete sugar-free diets have become popular in recent years as people look for ways to improve their health and lose weight. But are they actually safe? Going on a complete sugar-free diet means cutting out all sources of sugar, including fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy. It’s important to note that there is a big difference between added sugars, like those found in candy, cake, and soft drinks, and naturally occurring sugars, such as those found in fruits and vegetables.

Most health experts recommend cutting back on added sugar, which primarily include artificial sweeteners and refined sugars. However, eliminating them completely may not be necessary or even advisable. Going on a complete sugar-free diet can pose some risks to your health.  Eliminating all sugar from your diet could cause problems with your mood and energy levels. In the short term, it could lead to fatigue, headaches, and irritability as your body adapts to the lack of sugar. In the long term, it could lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and vitamin C.

However, no-sugar diets might actually have some benefits in the short term. Cutting out sugar can help to reduce calorie intake, which can lead to weight loss. It can also help to stabilize sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

So while there are some risks associated with going on a complete no-sugar diet, it is possible to do it safely if you’re careful about getting the right nutrients from other food sources. Speak with a registered dietitian or your doctor before making any drastic changes.

List of low sugar foods

When it comes to choosing foods low in sugar, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to understand the glycemic index (GI) [3]Oregon State University: Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load. The glycemic index scale measures how quickly sugar levels rise after eating a particular food. Foods with a high GI will cause sugar levels to spike, while those with a low GI will have a slower, more moderate effect.

In general, low GI foods are healthier for both blood sugar control and overall health. They’re also generally nutrient-rich and filling, making them excellent choices for both weight loss and diabetes management. So if you’re looking to go on a low sugar diet, we have a list of what you should eat and what you must avoid to keep your weight, sugar levels in the blood, and overall health under control.

Breads to eat vs Breads to avoid:

There are two main types of bread: whole grain and white. Whole grain bread is made with all three parts of the grain: the bran, the germ, and the endosperm. White bread is only made with the endosperm. Because of this, bread made with whole grains has more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than white bread. It also has a lower glycemic index, meaning it won’t cause your sugar levels to spike as much.

Some examples of whole-grain breads include 100% whole wheat, rye, barley, and oats. These breads are all low in sugar and a great source of fiber and other nutrients. If you’re looking for a white bread that’s low in sugar, look for one that’s made with whole wheat flour.

Examples of white breads to avoid include Wonder Bread, Country White Bread, and any other breads that don’t list whole wheat as the first ingredient. These kinds of bread are generally high in sugar and low in nutrients. They can also cause sugar levels in the blood to spike, which can be dangerous for people with diabetes.

Fruits to eat vs Fruits to avoid:

When it comes to fruits, there are a few things to keep in mind. Some fruits are higher in natural sugar than others, and some have a higher glycemic index. This means that they can also cause sugar levels to spike more quickly.

Some examples of low-sugar fruits include berries, apples, pears, and plums. These fruits are all relatively low on the glycemic index, meaning they won’t cause big spikes in blood sugar levels. They’re also generally nutrient-rich and filling, making them great choices for both weight loss and diabetes management.

On the other hand, there are some fruits you should avoid if you’re trying to stick to a low sugar diet. These include grapes, bananas, and mangoes. These fruits are all high in sugar and can cause sugar levels in the blood to spike quickly. They’re also not as filling or nutrient-rich as other options.

Fruits to eatFruits to avoid
PearsMango
PlumsPapaya
BerriesPineapple
ApplesCantaloupe
GrapefruitWatermelon

Vegetables to eat vs Vegetables to avoid:

Like with fruits, some vegetables are better for a low sugar diet than others. Generally, low-sugar leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, collard greens, and Swiss chard are the best choice. They’re all high in nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

On the other hand, you should avoid starchy vegetables like potatoes, corn, and peas. These vegetables are all high in sugar and can cause sugar levels in the blood to spike quickly. They’re also not as filling or nutrient-rich as other options, so they’re not the best choice for people looking to lose weight or manage diabetes.

Vegetables to eatVegetables to avoid
LettuceCarrots
BroccoliParsnips
PeppersPotatoes
CabbageBeetroots
Cauliflower Sweetcorn

Nuts to eat vs Nuts to avoid:

Nuts are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They’re also relatively low in sugar, making them a good choice for a low sugar diet. Some examples of low GI nuts include almonds, walnuts, and pistachios.

On the other hand, there are some nuts that are high in sugar and should be avoided on a low sugar diet. These include cashews, macadamia nuts, and dried fruits like raisins and dates.

Legumes to eat vs Legumes to avoid:

Legumes are a great source of protein, fiber, and other nutrients. They’re also relatively low in sugar, making them a good choice for a low sugar diet. Some examples of legumes that are low in sugar include black beans, lentils, and chickpeas.

On the other hand, there are some legumes that are high in sugar and should be avoided on a low sugar diet. These include kidney beans, lima beans, and fava beans.

Dairy to eat vs Dairy to avoid:

Dairy is a great source of calcium, protein, and other nutrients. Some forms of dairy are relatively low in sugar, as well. Some examples of dairy that is low in sugar include milk, yogurt, and cheese. Try to stick to low-fat dairy foods.

On the other hand, there are some types of dairy that are high in sugar and should be avoided on a low sugar diet. These include ice cream, pudding, and sweetened yogurts.

Meats to eat vs Meats to avoid:

Meats are a great source of protein, iron, and other nutrients. They’re also relatively low in sugar, making them a good choice for a low sugar diet. Include more lean meats in your diet. The best meats for low sugar diets are chicken, turkey, and certain fish that are rich in healthy fatty acids.

On the other hand, people on a low sugar diet should avoid processed, fatty, or red meats. These include ham, bacon, and sausage.

Cereal to eat vs Cereal to avoid:

Breakfast cereals are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and other nutrients. They can fulfill all your fiber and carbohydrate needs. Some examples of cereal that is low in sugar include oatmeal, bran flakes, and wheat germ.

On the other hand, there are some cereals that are relatively high in sugar content. These include corn flakes, granola, and honey-nut cheerios.

Snacks to eat vs Snacks to avoid:

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing snacks for a low sugar diet. First, look for snacks that are high in protein and fiber. These nutrients will help you feel full and satisfied between meals. Second, choose snacks that are low in sugar. Some good options include hard-boiled eggs, baked chips, low-sugar fruit bars, and nuts.

On the other hand, you should avoid snacks that are high in sugar and low in nutrients. These include packaged foods high in refined sugars, salts, and saturated and trans fats, like candy, cookies, chips, high-fat popcorn, and cake. Food labels at the back of the package can be your most reliable guide when you have to pick healthy packaged snack foods.

Other healthy foods for a low sugar diet:

  • Eggs
  • garlic
  • fennel
  • Avocados
  • Coconut oil
  • Olive oil
  • Bone broth
  • Dark chocolate (70% or higher)
  • Cinnamon
  • Chia seeds
  • Flaxseeds

A sample low sugar diet plan

Keeping the above lists in mind you can formulate a  low sugar diet plan that works for you. Here’s a sample plan to get you started:

Monday:

Breakfast: Omelet with veggies and avocado, side of berries, a  cup of coffee with cinnamon

Lunch: Chicken salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing, side of carrots

Snack: Hard-boiled egg

Dinner: Garlic shrimp with zucchini noodles, side of sautéed spinach and mushrooms

Dessert: Dark chocolate

Tuesday:

Breakfast: Scrambled or poached eggs with salsa, side of grapes, a cup of green tea

Lunch: Tuna salad with avocado mayo, side of cucumbers

Snack: Chia pudding

Dinner: Turkey burger with sautéed onions and peppers, side of roasted Brussels sprouts

Dessert:  Coconut yogurt with berries

Wednesday:

Breakfast: Oatmeal with almond milk and raisins, a cup of earl grey tea

Lunch: Lentil soup, side of a green salad

Snack: Nuts and seeds

Dinner: Salmon with roasted sweet potato and kale, side of quinoa

Dessert: Dark Chocolate covered strawberries

Thursday:

Breakfast: Smoothie with almond milk, spinach, and banana,  a cup of coffee

Lunch: Egg salad with celery and dill, side of carrots and cucumbers

Snack: Yogurt with berries

Dinner: Beef stir fry with broccoli and peppers, side of brown rice

Dessert: Chocolate avocado mousse

Friday:

Breakfast: Banana pancakes with almond butter, a cup of herbal tea

Lunch: Grilled chicken with roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli

Snack: Apple with peanut butter

Dinner: Tomato soup with grilled cheese, a side of  green salad

Dessert: Baked apple

Saturday:

Breakfast: Omelet with veggies, a cup of orange juice

Lunch: Chicken sandwich on wheat bread with avocado,  side of  grapes

Snack: Rice cakes with peanut butter

Dinner: Grilled steak, roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus

Dessert: Fruit salad

Sunday:

Breakfast: Pancakes with berries and yogurt, a cup of tea

Lunch: Veggie wrap with hummus, side of cherry tomatoes

Snack: Edamame

Dinner: Roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, roasted carrots

Dessert: Angel food cake with berries

Conclusion:

As you can see, there are plenty of options for a delicious and nutritious low sugar diet. By planning ahead and being mindful of the foods you’re eating, you can easily limit sugar intake and enjoy all the benefits that come with that healthier diet choice.

If you plan your diet well, and with nutritious, easy, and plentiful recipes, you can curb cravings and hunger pangs, and consume enough healthy nutrients at the same time. Keep in mind that everyone is different and you may need to experiment a bit to find the foods and meals that work best for you. But with a little effort, and creative thinking, you can easily create a low sugar diet plan that works for you and your lifestyle.

References

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