Diet Watch: Sugar Really IS the devil!!

So we have all heard it before: Sugar is bad for you. I know it, you know it, we have all heard it a million times. Thing is, it always sneaks its way into my diet! Lil devil you! I have tried many times to greatly reduce my sugar intake, and I have for the most part succeeded in lowering sugar from my diet substantially. However, was I really paying attention to what I ate, was I really understanding labels, and most importantly did I REALLY know WHY sugar was so bad for me?

Well one night I was researching online some new exercises and came across this fascinating little youtube lecture. It was by Robert H Lustig, and its called Sugar, the Bitter Truth. Over the past years I do try to limit processed foods, and I do stay around the perimeter of the grocery store (thats where all the healthier choices are), but processed foods do come into my diet-I admit it. After this lecture (it is long, I watched a little over half so far) I now will make sure I read my labels carefully, and I will damn sure not let my kids drink soda or concentrated juice or fill themselves with sugar....and all the other scientific names for sugar they put on our labels. So here is the link, the video should be on here, but if you didnt have the time or patience to watch (which I do suggest) there is a basic outline for the lecture.

http://www.happyhealthylonglife.com/happy_healthy_long_life/2011/03/sugar.html

And here is another briefer article on sugar with some healthy suggestions and tips:

http://nutritionontherun.blogspot.com/2011/01/sugarthe-devil.html

Although it is unrealistic to completely eliminate all processed foods and sugar (a dessert is nice every once in awhile), limiting them and eating more fresh foods is realistic. Always be sure to read your labels for those foods you do buy that are processed. If you have a sweet tooth like me (I swear I inherited it from BOTH my parents-thanks guys!) I suggest fresh fruits (not dried). Oranges, red grapefruits, berries and peaches really help me. I have a least 2 of these everyday.