Holiday season is approaching fast and so are all the tempting goodies. And we’ve just got rid of our Halloween Candy!

The Holiday cookie exchange parties, holiday dinners and work social gatherings have begun and all the glory of baking (and eating) is in full motion!

What can we do when we are constantly being offered chocolates, cookies, and rich pastries at every event we attend?

Although all these treats are delicious, we know that all that sugar is not only going to add up to more pounds on the scale come January, but it also means bad news for our immune system. As you may recall from previous posts, sugar can lead to a series of issues in our bodies, mainly because it lowers our immune system for up to 24 hours according to research! [study]. Processed white sugars are also very bad for energy and blood sugar balance which does nothing for our waist line , mood and brains! Oh..and guess how your sugar got to look so beautiful and white? And brown sugar is even more highly processed than white sugar!

What does too much sugar do to your body?

Sugar will spike blood sugar and then cause it to crash, which deprives you of energy and messes with your mental clarity and focus. These drastic highs and lows in blood sugar can put you at risk of becoming insulin-resistant or hypoglycaemic. Did you know that about 70 percent of the population is walking around with insulin resistance? Yup. Our Standard American Diet does not promote health. If you’ve been following or learning from functional medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, or nutritionists, you will have learned over the last 18 months just how important it is to have strong metabolic health. Those with diabetes or blood sugar control issues are the ones being hit the hardest with our ‘coV-2 virus.’ So it’s that much more important to look for ways to create a stronger metabolic system.

How do you know if you have insulin resistance?

While there are tests your doctor can do for you, it’s really easy to see insulin resistance in people by paying attention to symptoms.

Some of the most common ones I see in my practice are being “hangry” or feeling light headed if you don’t eat anything for over 3 hours). Have a look at this image for additional symptoms.

How can I reduce sugar intake naturally?

Be smart with how you sweeten your tooth. There are loads of natural alternatives to processed sugars and chemical laden, sugary treats. Below I have listed some alternative sweeteners that can be used for baking at home. Also ensure you are reading your labels when purchasing baked goods and drinks to see what ingredients may be present. There are lots of healthier options to choose from and bakeries that offer better quality ingredients.

These healthier sugars are low-glycemic (meaning they won't spike your blood sugar) and they are found naturally in either fruit or grains.

Dates - wide variety of types (Medjool, Acai, Barhi, Halawi)

• high in fiber (esp. soluble fiber which helps relieve constipation)

• overall good for digestive health (strengthen good bacteria in the colon)

• high in magnesium (good for bone health)

• high in iron, so they provide energy and help with anemia

• high in selenium (antioxidant that helps prevent cancer)

• good for heart health and lowers cholesterol

Maple Syrup- 100% pure organic maple syrup with no additives or preservatives added

• lower glycemic index than processed sugar

• completely natural so the body recognizes it as whole food

• high in minerals: Zinc, Magnesium, Potassium, Calcium, Iron

• high in antioxidants and enzymes

Honey - 100% Raw, organic honey

• high in antioxidants

• high in phytonutrients

• anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties

• great energy source (good for pre-workout and recovery)

• boosts immune system

Stevia - powder or liquid drop forms available

• zero calories

• 100% natural

• lowers blood sugar levels (good for diabetics)

• lowers bad (LDL) cholesterol

• anti-inflammatory

• helps strengthen the immune system

The take home today is that you can sweeten your life, but just choose foods that have beneficial properties and do not cause harm to your body.

Have your cake and eat it too!

I always like to focus on what you can have…versus what you can’t have. HOnestly…when you are nourished, you will not experience cravings. If you don’t believe me, you should try one of the cleanses we offer at Balance Point Health Centre.

*Blend the dates with the peanut butter. Fill the peanut butter on top of the chocolate lined muffin tray.*Top with more melted chocolate sauce. Freeze for another 10 minutes. Enjoy!

These raw chocolate treats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.