Sugary snacks, drinks, and instant foods are a big temptation for many people. Sweet foods may make you feel good and relieve stress in the moment you eat them, but excessive sugar intake is detrimental to your health in the long run and is the biggest obstacle to weight management.
|
[Korean Today] The temptation of sweet foods with sugar © Reporter Park Jeong-hee |
Although sweet foods release dopamine in the brain and give a sense of satisfaction, they create a vicious cycle that makes you crave more sugar. This causes fatigue by repeatedly raising and lowering blood sugar levels in the body, and eventually causes serious diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Sugar is called “empty calories” because it is high in calories and has little nutritional value, and acts as an invisible risk factor even when dieting.
To reduce sweet foods, it is effective to use substitutes. Natural fruits provide natural sweetness and are a healthy choice that can be consumed together with fiber and vitamins. Another good way is to use low-calorie natural sweeteners such as stevia instead of sugar. This change reduces the burden of giving up sweet foods for those who are starting a diet and increases sustainability.
|
[Korean Today] The temptation of delicious food © Reporter Park Jeong-hee |
In fact, those who have succeeded in quitting junk food have increased the proportion of protein and dietary fiber in their diet, increased water intake, and reduced sugar cravings. They have also reduced processed foods and chosen a diet composed of fresh ingredients to lose weight and maintain a healthy life.
The most important thing in the process of cutting out sugar is gradual change. Trying to cut out sugar completely from the beginning can lead to stress and frustration. Reducing your intake step by step, checking labels to avoid hidden sugars, and making healthy alternatives are the keys to long-term success.
|
[Korean Today] Food that improves the quality of life © Reporter Park Jeong-hee |
Cutting down on sugary foods is not just about dieting, it also plays an important role in improving concentration, energy levels, and quality of life. The sweetness of sugar only gives you a momentary pleasure, but being aware of the health problems hidden behind it and creating sustainable eating habits is the path to true satisfaction and happiness.
|
|
© The Korean Today – All Rights Reserved