6 Expert Tips for Reducing Added Sugar in Your Diet

Have an ‘Add,’ Not a Subtract, Mentality

 Add nutrient-rich foods like fruits, beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and lean protein to reduce sugar.

Clean House to Remove Tempting Sugary Foods

Ashton believes their presence increases sweet snacking. She suggests sweeping your home to remove them. Tell your family they can eat dessert out this month.

Avoid sugary drinks if nothing else 

Even “savory” foods like salad dressings include sugar, but Lisa Moskovitz, RD, founder of the New York Nutrition Group in New York City, thinks limiting sweetened beverages is most effective.

Move Onto Another Heavy Hitter: Desserts

Moskovitz suggests desserts next. This doesn't mean no treats! See below.) Next, cut back on sugary, nutrient-poor foods. 

Read Labels to Suss Out Added Sugar

Finding sugar is difficult without understanding its names. SugarScience from the University of California in San Francisco detected additional sugar in 75% of 61 packaged items.

Treat Yourself, but Make It Just That: A Treat

I encourage patients, including those trying to lose weight, to treat themselves occasionally to avoid feeling starved and failing.

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