For years there’s been lots of hype about hidden sugar and calories in all of the things we drink. From soda to our favorite coffees, it’s been drilled into our head that if we drink a few of those each day, it equates to an extra piece of cake (or whatever analogy you like) in terms of the calories and sugar we are ingesting daily. So we’ve cut out the cola and the grande mocha lattes, but where else are those hidden extras concealed?
If you are looking to cut some calories and sugar from your diet, you might be surprised to find how many you are consuming in “extras.” These are items such as condiments, sauces, jellies and jams, butter and other spreads, cheese toppings and the like. Consequently, if you are looking to lose a few pounds or reduce your sugar intake, instead of revamping your entire menu, why not simply cut back on some of those add-ons?
Start paying attention to all of the little things that you use to supplement your food. Do you always pour dressing over salad? What do you top your burgers and sandwiches with - ketchup, mayo, mustard? How about that pasta? Do you drown it in fresh Parmesan cheese? Do you put both butter and jam on your toast? Once you begin to really tune in, I think you’ll be surprised by your own consumption.
Find out what's happening in New Canaanwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Like any other area you are trying to improve, the first step is awareness. Log your "extras" for a week and see how they add up. Then start making adjustments and limit those toppings if your goal is to lose a few. Ask yourself, do I really need the jam and the butter on my toast? Try one spoonful of cheese on your pasta instead of two or three—you may not even miss it. Get creative and become inventive with spices and seasoning instead. Little tweaks can equate to big changes in your waistline.
Try it for a week or two and let me know if you see a difference on the scale.
