{"id":1784994,"date":"2026-02-17T13:53:38","date_gmt":"2026-02-17T10:53:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1784994"},"modified":"2026-02-17T13:53:38","modified_gmt":"2026-02-17T10:53:38","slug":"a-simple-dietician-approved-way-to-cut-back-on-sugar-from-breakfast-to-bedtime","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1784994","title":{"rendered":"A Simple, Dietician-Approved Way to Cut Back on Sugar\u2014From Breakfast to Bedtime"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/zobmnTyQvjwqpjrFLcJo30PHPio=\/1500&#215;0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/sugar-2-495097e9ac834d2b9068e81bf94661b0.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><main id=\"main_1-0\" class=\"comp main layout-body--continuous-scroll mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article--sc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article--sc beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--three-column sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">A Simple, Dietician-Approved Way to Cut Back on Sugar\u2014From Breakfast to Bedtime<\/h1>\n<p id=\"article-subheading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-subheading mntl-text-block\">This will help curb cravings.<\/p>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Kaitlyn McClintock contributed to Byrdie for over two years, most recently covering beauty news for the brand.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Kaitlyn McLintock<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"byrdie writer kaitlyn mclintock headshot\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/lm0sDDMBNO8kRLK5M45wuzyLU1c=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__users__724__kaitlyn-mclintock-724-1506353331-main_image-2e5d06a81ff64cdfb32b039e50a47ed5.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/lm0sDDMBNO8kRLK5M45wuzyLU1c=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__users__724__kaitlyn-mclintock-724-1506353331-main_image-2e5d06a81ff64cdfb32b039e50a47ed5.jpg\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"byrdie writer kaitlyn mclintock headshot\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nKaitlyn McLintock\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--x\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nKaitlyn McClintock contributed to Byrdie for over two years, most recently covering beauty news for the brand.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on February 17, 2026 08:53AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--medical_reviewer\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Medically reviewed by<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Maryann Walsh, MFN, RD, CDE is\u00a0a\u00a0is a registered dietitian based in Palm Beach, Florida. She\u00a0completed her Master of Food and Nutrition and Dietetic Internship at Bowling Green State University.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Maryann Walsh, MFN, RD, CDE<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"Maryann Walsh\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/19mL9j9qNaz1wrNOOvLSaKGaUKk=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/_7.MaryannWalshMFNRDCDE-fb8f586b1c97461893f4cadcd38ee695.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/19mL9j9qNaz1wrNOOvLSaKGaUKk=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/_7.MaryannWalshMFNRDCDE-fb8f586b1c97461893f4cadcd38ee695.jpg\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Maryann Walsh\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Medically reviewed by<\/span><br \/>\nMaryann Walsh, MFN, RD, CDE\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nMaryann Walsh, MFN, RD, CDE is\u00a0a\u00a0is a registered dietitian based in Palm Beach, Florida. She\u00a0completed her Master of Food and Nutrition and Dietetic Internship at Bowling Green State University.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nABOUT BYRDIE&#8217;S BEAUTY &amp; WELLNESS BOARD\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-postscript\">Registered Dietitian<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--fact_checker\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Fact checked by<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Anna Harris is an experienced fact-checker and researcher and a beauty writer and editor.\u00a0\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Anna Harris<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top mntl-author-tooltip__top--no-image\">\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Fact checked by<\/span><br \/>\nAnna Harris\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nAnna Harris is an experienced fact-checker and researcher and a beauty writer and editor.\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nLEARN ABOUT BYRDIE&#8217;S EDITORIAL GUIDELINES\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-left-rail\">\n<div id=\"beauty-sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-sticky-toc mntl-block js-sticky-container sticky-toc__wrapper\">\n<div id=\"sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc mntl-universal-sticky-toc mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block sticky-toc-widget\" data-desktop-bp=\"70em\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"true\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading mntl-block js-toc-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle__btn_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle__btn mntl-text-block js-mntl-toc-toggle text-label-300\" data-click-tracked=\"true\" data-collapsed-text=\"View All\" data-expanded-text=\"View Less\">View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__mobile-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__mobile-toggle mntl-block js-sticky-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-toc__list_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list mntl-toc__list-heading expert-content text-utility-300\">\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Sugar Addiction<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">What is a Sugar Detox?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Why Go on a Sugar Detox?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Why Do We Crave Sugar?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Breakfast<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Lunch<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Dinner<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Snacks<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Hidden Sugars to Avoid<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Eating Fruit on a Sugar Detox<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">What are the side effects of a Sugar Detox?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/5BfKcq_UYWip9pnN7rtB-WCG0xc=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/sugar-1-e4548588cc3748f09d51d6f0220a81ba.jpg\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" alt=\"A decorated cake with pink frosting cherries on top a table setting with tea in the background and a hand holding a piece of cake\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/5BfKcq_UYWip9pnN7rtB-WCG0xc=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/sugar-1-e4548588cc3748f09d51d6f0220a81ba.jpg\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"A decorated cake with pink frosting cherries on top a table setting with tea in the background and a hand holding a piece of cake\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>A sugar detox involves eliminating added sugars, which differ from naturally occurring sugars found in fruits and vegetables.<\/li>\n<li>Experts advise choosing protein-rich meals to prevent sugar cravings and stabilize energy levels.<\/li>\n<li>Snacks like hard-boiled eggs or green smoothies are recommended for managing hunger and maintaining stable blood sugar levels.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Breaking up with sugar is bittersweet. But, going on a sugar detox may be simpler (and indeed, sweeter) than you think. Ahead, nutrition experts share a detailed sugar detox diet plan that will keep you satiated all day, while keeping sugar cravings at bay. Plus, get the inside scoop on hidden sugars to avoid, and learn what causes sugar cravings in the first place.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Lauren O&#8217;Connor is a Registered Dietitian, the author of<em>\u00a0Healthy Cooking for One Cookbook<\/em>, and the owner of Nutri-Savvy.<\/li>\n<li>Elizabeth Adrian, RDN, CDN, is a Senior Registered Dietitian at\u00a0Season Health.<\/li>\n<li>Darby Jackson is a certified holistic health coach, personal trainer, and the founder of\u00a0Darby Jackson Well-Being.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Sugar Addiction <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Studies show that we can become biologically addicted to sugar, just as we would other substances like drugs or alcohol, which might explain why statistics on sugar consumption are so staggering. A report from the University of California San Francisco explains that the recommended daily added sugar consumption is no more than six teaspoons (or 25 grams.) However, the average American consumes 17 teaspoons, or around 71 grams, per day. It&#8217;s scary stuff.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What is a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;Put simply, a sugar detox involves cutting added sugars from your diet for a period of time,&#8221; says Elizabeth Adrian, RDN, CDN, a Senior Registered Dietitian at\u00a0Season Health. &#8220;For people who are interested in cutting or reducing added sugars in their diet, it\u2019s important to note the difference between added sugars and natural sugars. Major sources of added sugars include sugary beverages, desserts, sweet snacks, and candy. The calories in added sugar are empty calories, meaning there is little nutritional value. In contrast, natural sugars are those sugars found naturally in foods such as vegetables, fruits, grains, and dairy products. From a nutrition perspective, it is not advised to cut out any of the aforementioned food groups because of their fiber, vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant properties.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Go on a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Sugar isn&#8217;t a necessity. It can be removed from our diets and kitchen cabinets with a bit of conscious effort and the right mix of nutritious foods to keep us full and satisfied. But, for most of us, our bodies are accustomed to all the sugar we routinely feed ourselves, so we are seemingly programmed to crave more. To reset and erase these cravings, a sugar detox\u2014a deliberate effort to minimize as much sugar as possible from our diet\u2014may be necessary. To help us craft the best sugar detox diet plan and determine exactly what to eat to kick the sugar habit to the curb, we turned to two nutrition experts who gave us a doable meal plan. The best part? A lot of it sounds mouthwateringly delicious.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Do We Crave Sugar? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> First, it&#8217;s good to know we&#8217;re not lacking in self-control or willpower when it comes to sugar cravings. &#8220;Our biological addiction to sugar comes from primitive neurochemical reward centers in our brains that light up when we consume sugar,&#8221; Holistic health coach Darby Jackson explains.\u00a0&#8220;These reward centers used to help keep us alive by signaling to our bodies that we need to eat more sugar to put on fat and stay alive when food was scarce. Now, food is everywhere, yet our bodies are still programmed to consume sugar when we see it.&#8221; To counteract this natural response, Jackson says,\u00a0&#8220;it&#8217;s important for us to set our bodies up to control these cravings through a healthy diet and lifestyle.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> But that doesn&#8217;t mean quitting sugar all at once. &#8220;Start by recognizing how much sugar is in the food you are currently eating. Read the labels, look for &#8216;hidden sugars&#8217; and stick to more whole foods,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. (Find more on hidden sugars below.) \u201cThen, wean yourself off by consuming less of the bread, crackers, chips, and even energy bars, some of which are practically candy bars in disguise.&#8221; Consuming less sweet and processed foods is the goal, but she cautions against depriving yourself entirely. &#8220;Although it can be tricky, you\u2019ve got to stick to your plan. Cold turkey may be easier in the short term because your body isn\u2019t responding to sugar\u2019s incessant and nagging effect on the brain and the body. Still, in most cases, deprivation can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food, and in some cases, binging.&#8221;\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Ahead, read our experts&#8217; sample diet plan for a low-sugar daily diet. (There are even some treats included.)<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Breakfast <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Whole eggs (either scrambled or in an omelet) or a yogurt parfait with plain yogurt, nuts, and seeds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Jackson agrees that slow and steady is best for a lifestyle change, and it all starts with the first meal of the day. &#8220;The easiest way to start is by adjusting just your breakfast for an entire week,&#8221; she says. &#8220;Focus on foods in the morning that are high in quality protein as well as healthy fats, as these foods will keep you fuller longer and suppress cravings, but give you energy.&#8221; She recommends eating whole scrambled eggs cooked in coconut oil, which will provide both that necessary healthy protein and fat (as a bonus, it&#8217;s super easy and quick to make on early work mornings when we have zero motivation).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Registered dietician Lauren O&#8217;Connor similarly recommends a veggie-filled omelet with shredded cheese, though her favorite breakfast is a yogurt parfait. Just be sure to use plain, unsweetened yogurt and a low-sugar and high-protein granola. Then, sprinkle in some nuts, seeds, and berries.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Lunch <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>A salad with a variety of veggies, legumes, and healthy fats.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For lunch, keep up with the protein, fiber, and healthy fats combo.\u00a0&#8220;The best way to detox from sugar is to make sure that you are consuming protein and healthy fats. Protein will keep you feeling fuller longer and can also help reduce cravings, while healthy fats like coconut oil and avocado will help stabilize your blood sugar and give you the energy you need to power through your day,&#8221; Jackson says.\u00a0Try preparing a colorful salad that&#8217;s topped with beans, quinoa, or lentils and drizzled with olive oil. It has the nutrients your body needs and will give you sustained energy all afternoon long (so you can avoid that 3 p.m. slump that usually requires a cup\u2014or two\u2014of coffee to overcome).\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Your lunch break\u00a0is also a good time to check in with your hydration levels. Water is important to the body&#8217;s metabolic processes and also keeps you feeling energized and alert. Plus, it might prevent you from breaking your sugar detox to scarf down one of those conference room donuts. &#8220;When a person sees a sweet treat such as a glazed donut, pleasure signals are triggered in the brain,&#8221; O&#8217;Connor explains. &#8220;The mind is a powerful thing. Simply seeing something pleasurable can elicit a desire. However, drinking water can delay your response and give you time to evaluate whether or not it\u2019s a good choice to consume (or if just a bite or two will do).&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Dinner <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Roasted vegetables with wild salmon, avocado, and brown rice.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Again, it\u2019s all about a vegetable-based meal that includes protein and healthy fats. &#8220;You can certainly include whole grains such as brown rice and quinoa, but limit (don\u2019t restrict) the bread intake and other refined starches,&#8221; advises O&#8217;Connor. Try a roasted vegetable medley with a serving of wild salmon, avocado, and brown rice. It&#8217;s still warm and filling, but\u00a0without the extra calories and unhealthy fat that comes with many hot meals, like cream-based soups and starchy pasta dishes.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Start with a base of spinach and cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts and cauliflower before adding carrots, sweet potato, broccoli, or radishes\u2014all of which can be roasted in olive oil.\u00a0Top it off with a freshly prepared salmon filet and some avocado. We don&#8217;t know about you, but that sounds <em>so<\/em> appetizing, <em>so<\/em> filling, and <em>so<\/em> satisfying to us.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Snacks <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_43-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Hard-boiled eggs, a green smoothie, plain yogurt with berries, Wasa crackers and cottage cheese, edamame, or crudit\u00e9s and hummus.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_45-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> O\u2019Connor says that whether you choose to have snacks or not during your detox is up to you, and you should listen to your body to help you decide if you need one or not. \u201cSome people do fine with just three meals, [while] others benefit from smaller meals and a snack or two,\u201d she explains. \u201cIf you start to feel a little peckish between your meals, then please have a snack. \u2018Starving\u2019 or restricting to save on calories may lead to binges later on.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_47-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Because they are a great source of satiating protein and don\u2019t contain sugar, hard-boiled or deviled eggs are one of O\u2019Connor\u2019s top choices for a healthy snack during a sugar detox. \u201cThe yolk contains plenty of nutrients, including bone-protective calcium and B vitamins, which are essential for brain health.\u201d She recommends enjoying them with a little Dijon mustard.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_49-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you\u2019re more in the mood for something cold and refreshing, grab your blender. \u201cTry a green smoothie made with a handful of spinach, 4 to 5 cubes of pineapple,\u00a0\u00bd a small avocado, and your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk,\u201d says O\u2019Connor. \u201cIt\u2019s got just enough natural sweetness in the mix for a tasty balance, [and] the healthy fats and fiber will keep your blood sugars level.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_51-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> O\u2019Connor says that plain yogurt with berries is also an excellent choice for a snack that will help keep blood sugar levels under control. The protein from the yogurt and antioxidant-rich berries offer a nutritious, satiating snack that can feel indulgent.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_53-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you\u2019re craving something more savory, O\u2019Connor suggests Wasa crisp crackers and cottage cheese. \u201cYou\u2019ll get plenty of whole-grain fiber from the crackers (3g per serving) and a good dose of protein in this low-sugar snack,\u201d she notes. Or, opt for \u00bd cup of edamame, which you can buy fresh or frozen (and then thaw or heat to your liking). According to O\u2019Connor, \u201cThese beans pack in fiber and protein for a convenient and satisfying snack-savvy option, [or for] more flavor, saut\u00e9 them lightly with minced garlic and add a touch of sea salt.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_55-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Lastly, O\u2019Connor recommends crudit\u00e9s (carrot, celery, zucchini sticks, radish, etc.) with \u00bc cup of hummus or \u00bd cup of plain low-fat Greek yogurt seasoned with lemon juice or zest and a pinch of sea salt or your favorite seasoning blend. \u201cI recommend Tajine, Zaatar, or \u2018Everything But the Bagel\u2019 for ultimate flavor,\u201d she adds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_57-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you have a strong craving for a piece of fresh fruit, it\u2019s possible to make that work, even during a sugar detox. \u201cIf you are worried about the sugar (all fruit contains natural sugars), just add a loose handful of nuts or seeds,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. \u201cThe healthy fat will keep those blood sugars stable and provide a little more satiation.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_59-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you do want to try and limit your snacking, especially mindless eating, O\u2019Connor has a few tips:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_61-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Drink plenty of water throughout the day.<\/li>\n<li>Space out your meals evenly during the day.<\/li>\n<li>Be mindful while you eat (sit down when you eat, don\u2019t eat while distracted), chew your food, and eat slowly. \u201cYou\u2019re more likely to recognize how much you are eating and better recall it at the end of the day,\u201d she says.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_63-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Hidden Sugars to Avoid <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_64-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> During a sugar detox, you want to avoid snacks that are high in sugars or highly processed snacks such as pretzels, cookies, fruit snacks, low-fiber crackers, cereal bars, and chips. But, there are less obvious foods that are better left on the shelf and out of your diet. For example, some \u201chealthy\u201d foods like packaged granola contain lots of added sugars, as well as partially hydrogenated oils. \u201cThere are hidden sugars in many of our packaged convenience foods. And often, many of these don\u2019t necessarily taste particularly sweet,\u201d explains O\u2019Connor. \u201cSome wheat bread, for instance, may contain barley malt and other &#8216;sugars,&#8217; such as honey to balance the flavor, but we don\u2019t consider this dessert.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_66-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Granola bars, and even \u201cprotein bars,\u201d also often masquerade as something healthier than they are. \u201cWhile some energy bars are formulated to be low in sugars and high in protein and\/or healthy fats, there are so many that contain an excess of added sugars, chemicals, and fillers we don\u2019t need. So, you\u2019ve got to read those labels,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. \u201cRather than decipher through a laundry list of ingredients, make your own trail mix\u2014just be sure to limit the dried fruit (to one tablespoon) because it\u2019s concentrated in sugars.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_68-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Also, be aware of drinking too much alcohol. It&#8217;s less satisfying than food but still adds a lot of calories to our day with its hidden sugars. &#8220;Not only that,&#8221; says O&#8217;Connor, but &#8220;alcohol impairs our judgment, so we tend to eat &#8216;more freely&#8217; as opposed to sticking to moderation.&#8221;\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_70-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Eating Fruit on a Sugar Detox <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_71-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Aside from packaged and processed foods and alcohol, also avoid eating too much fruit. Jackson says\u00a0it can have\u00a0adverse effects on the body and encourage more sugar cravings. &#8220;There is a place for a little fruit in everyone&#8217;s diet and it isn&#8217;t something that should be completely cut out, but too much fruit can be very detrimental to your body,&#8221; she says. &#8220;It&#8217;s packed with sugar, especially in juice form, and is just setting your body up for an insulin crash. Be mindful when you pick up a &#8216;green juice&#8217; and check to see how much sugar is in the bottle. If you are going to eat fruit, aim for lower-sugar fruits like berries, which are also packed with other nutrients.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_73-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--tips beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-tips\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Byrdie Tip<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>A good fruit choice is a clementine or Mandarin orange because the segments help you eat more mindfully and savor each bite.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_74-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What are the side effects of a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_75-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;As with many diet and wellness trends, a sugar detox has both pros and cons,&#8221; says Adrian. &#8220;A true &#8216;sugar detox&#8217; typically involves going cold turkey\u2014at least to start. However, this can lead to unpleasant side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, and low blood sugar.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_77-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> She adds: &#8220;Though there are benefits to reducing the amount of added sugar in your diet, research shows that cutting out certain foods or food groups is typically not effective or sustainable in the long term. Instead of going cold turkey, I would advise starting slowly by gradually reducing the amount of added sugars in your diet. This will help prevent you from experiencing those unwanted symptoms and you\u2019ll likely be more successful in the long run. Aim to stay below the American Heart Association\u2019s recommendations of no more than six teaspoons of added sugar per day for women and nine teaspoons for men.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources mntl-article-sources mntl-expandable-block u-article-styles\" data-scroll-offset=\"70\">\n<div class=\"loc toggle-content\">\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__wrapper mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"true\"><span id=\"mntl-article-sources__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__heading mntl-text-block\">Article Sources<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc expandable-content\">\n<div id=\"citation-sources__text_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources__text mntl-text-block\">Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__citation-sources mntl-citation-sources mntl-sources\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ol class=\"mntl-sources__content\">\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-1\">\n<p>DiNicolantonio JJ, O&#8217;Keefe JH, Wilson WL. Sugar addiction: is it real? a narrative review.\u00a0<em>Br J Sports Med<\/em>. 2018;52(14):910-913. doi:10.1136\/bjsports-2017-097971<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-2\">\n<p>University of California San Francisco SugarScience. How much is too Much? the growing concern over too much added sugar in our diets.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Health &amp; Wellness<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Nutrition<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div id=\"recirc_1-0\" class=\"comp recirc 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class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Three juice bottles from brands Raw Generation, Suja, and Raw Truce\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/gLCqoHGkuvRau0zpc1G3zG5CpZM=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/juice-cleanses-of-2024-according-to-a-dietitian-recirc-1-15b481acdcdd4ec7808eb2d2c9561715.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/gLCqoHGkuvRau0zpc1G3zG5CpZM=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/juice-cleanses-of-2024-according-to-a-dietitian-recirc-1-15b481acdcdd4ec7808eb2d2c9561715.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Three juice bottles from brands Raw Generation, Suja, and Raw Truce\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Refresh and Reset With the 8 Best Juice Cleanses, According to a Dietitian<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_4-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A hand with red nails holding a glass of milk\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/Un2PE1LmbruDU3L1AZ_97hwCMLs=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/dairy-1-e3775cf948f944829d1fc16addc016a3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/Un2PE1LmbruDU3L1AZ_97hwCMLs=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/dairy-1-e3775cf948f944829d1fc16addc016a3.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A hand with red nails holding a glass of milk\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">I Cut Out Dairy and Cleared My Painful Cystic Breakouts\u2014Here&#8217;s Why It Worked<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_5-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Two women are showcasing hairstyles one using a hairspray\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/GwX1uDZnwpkSMXt7-SMvAmAdUe4=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/alcohol-free-hairsprays-to-lock-in-your-look-tout-recirc-a0d5c52023c4430ca2e3355808dc2c7b.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/GwX1uDZnwpkSMXt7-SMvAmAdUe4=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/alcohol-free-hairsprays-to-lock-in-your-look-tout-recirc-a0d5c52023c4430ca2e3355808dc2c7b.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Two women are showcasing hairstyles one using a hairspray\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 5 Best Alcohol-Free Hairsprays to Lock in Your Look (We Tested Over 50)<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_6-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A hand dropping a tablet into a glass of water\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/aO7y7UGCtSXjZqkVekaCPzJQ5sk=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/pre-workout-drinks-2-4abd41c6dd634bbbb44e59e3e9c33ab1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/aO7y7UGCtSXjZqkVekaCPzJQ5sk=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/pre-workout-drinks-2-4abd41c6dd634bbbb44e59e3e9c33ab1.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A hand dropping a tablet into a glass of water\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">These Pre-Workout Drinks Actually Do Something<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_7-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A woman's hand with a fork and a slice of cake\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/tu3dFIPr1SgSItaoMUdrzvLHTjk=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/sugarcravings-a2443166699f4526954cabc3aafe102c.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/tu3dFIPr1SgSItaoMUdrzvLHTjk=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/sugarcravings-a2443166699f4526954cabc3aafe102c.png\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A woman's hand with a fork and a slice of cake\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Craving Sweets? Experts Explain What Sugar Cravings Really Mean<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_8-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"person unsure about donuts\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/FnIow7LELxxsGA7j5evQz4QX54I=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/Stocksy_txpa80838090d3300_Medium_1175831-5b3d9487ef8b4dde92fd3bfb01bf8046.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/FnIow7LELxxsGA7j5evQz4QX54I=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/Stocksy_txpa80838090d3300_Medium_1175831-5b3d9487ef8b4dde92fd3bfb01bf8046.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"person unsure about donuts\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">A Dietitian-Approved Sugar Detox Diet Plan, From Breakfast to Bedtime Snacks<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul id=\"card-list-2_1-0\" class=\"comp card-list-2 card-list mntl-block l-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"card-list__item_9-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Hands holding a pill organizer with compartments containing capsules and tablets resting on structured fabric\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/PP3DQnXJhCGOkVrEHVuGikcIgwU=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/Ashwagandha-2-6e80f83acc1d45879155c5aed481d46d.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/PP3DQnXJhCGOkVrEHVuGikcIgwU=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/Ashwagandha-2-6e80f83acc1d45879155c5aed481d46d.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Hands holding a pill organizer with compartments containing capsules and tablets resting on structured fabric\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Ashwagandha Is the Mood-Boosing, Stress Managing Adaptogen Everyone Is (Still) Talking About<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_10-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"An orange bowl of produce, including blueberries, nectarines, an egglplant, and cherries, on a cream colored surface.\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/3xmYmkQc7dtx2_ygV3oM7_CLEtU=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/abowlofproduce-0abd82cda97c43218f34e9770f43bb70.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/3xmYmkQc7dtx2_ygV3oM7_CLEtU=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/abowlofproduce-0abd82cda97c43218f34e9770f43bb70.png\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"An orange bowl of produce, including blueberries, nectarines, an egglplant, and cherries, on a cream colored surface.\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">What Is The No-Sugar Diet? Everything You Need to Know, According to Nutritionists<br \/>\n<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_11-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Shawn Johnson\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/8NxqOptcjnR4t0PbeNIVT85_6vE=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/Byr_AthleteBeat_ShawnJohnson_Recirc-a0dc2f0867cb4b3cb855a7fcdb9b42ff.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/8NxqOptcjnR4t0PbeNIVT85_6vE=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/Byr_AthleteBeat_ShawnJohnson_Recirc-a0dc2f0867cb4b3cb855a7fcdb9b42ff.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Shawn Johnson\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Shawn Johnson Shares the Routine That\u2019s Healing Her Postpartum Hair<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_12-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Back view of woman with long, curly hair in half-up hairstyle with pink bow\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/aWk082NVkxsB5SrACaOEz8cNiDs=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/DTS_HAIR_JALISCO_gabriela__henrik_Photos_ID12633-30582cf6303047348548a7e44e4d3fd5.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/aWk082NVkxsB5SrACaOEz8cNiDs=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/DTS_HAIR_JALISCO_gabriela__henrik_Photos_ID12633-30582cf6303047348548a7e44e4d3fd5.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Back view of woman with long, curly hair in half-up hairstyle with pink bow\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">23 Ways to Make Hair Grow Faster for the Long, Healthy Strands of Your Dreams<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_13-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A person applying skincare product to their face with their eyes closed wearing a thinstrapped top\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/_KN2Mn81Ibxn1HYaQDCz4tqcbok=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/washing-face-3-02192808238e47a78e7201d0e344125f.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/_KN2Mn81Ibxn1HYaQDCz4tqcbok=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/washing-face-3-02192808238e47a78e7201d0e344125f.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person applying skincare product to their face with their eyes closed wearing a thinstrapped top\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Inside the Salt Water Face-Washing Craze<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_14-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A cookie bag covered in bag charms including tampons.\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/O7Obt2g8w_IqP7NLfEzE0R5J5rY=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/coralede2-863d2323afb44f70ab180724922acfcb.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/O7Obt2g8w_IqP7NLfEzE0R5J5rY=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/coralede2-863d2323afb44f70ab180724922acfcb.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A cookie bag covered in bag charms including tampons.\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Your Period Deserves the &#8220;Little Treat&#8221; Treatment<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_15-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Jennifer Aniston beauty tips: Jennifer Aniston on red carpet\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/mMuhm8L_HxSTOGRotONGeFgEa_4=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__posts__174546__jennifer-aniston-beauty-tips-174546-1533636355170-main.700x0c-a523cd894ba24d7d8e087bf5fae6cb5e.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/mMuhm8L_HxSTOGRotONGeFgEa_4=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__posts__174546__jennifer-aniston-beauty-tips-174546-1533636355170-main.700x0c-a523cd894ba24d7d8e087bf5fae6cb5e.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Jennifer Aniston beauty tips: Jennifer Aniston on red carpet\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">This Is Exactly What Jennifer Aniston&#8217;s Health and Wellness Routine Entails<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_16-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"kim kardashian\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/398eoLQD1GXlCJI0UKbpNJvrphE=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/kim-kardashian-diet-V2-fa2b243d6ccb4b6a97768bfef25eb1cb.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/398eoLQD1GXlCJI0UKbpNJvrphE=\/300x240\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/kim-kardashian-diet-V2-fa2b243d6ccb4b6a97768bfef25eb1cb.png\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"kim kardashian\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">We Followed Kim Kardashian&#8217;s Diet for a Week \u2013Here&#8217;s What Happened<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/main><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article--sc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article--sc beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--three-column sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">A Simple, Dietician-Approved Way to Cut Back on Sugar\u2014From Breakfast to Bedtime<\/h1>\n<p id=\"article-subheading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-subheading mntl-text-block\">This will help curb cravings.<\/p>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Kaitlyn McClintock contributed to Byrdie for over two years, most recently covering beauty news for the brand.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Kaitlyn McLintock<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"byrdie writer kaitlyn mclintock headshot\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/lm0sDDMBNO8kRLK5M45wuzyLU1c=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__users__724__kaitlyn-mclintock-724-1506353331-main_image-2e5d06a81ff64cdfb32b039e50a47ed5.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/lm0sDDMBNO8kRLK5M45wuzyLU1c=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__users__724__kaitlyn-mclintock-724-1506353331-main_image-2e5d06a81ff64cdfb32b039e50a47ed5.jpg\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"byrdie writer kaitlyn mclintock headshot\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nKaitlyn McLintock\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--x\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nKaitlyn McClintock contributed to Byrdie for over two years, most recently covering beauty news for the brand.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on February 17, 2026 08:53AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--medical_reviewer\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Medically reviewed by<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Maryann Walsh, MFN, RD, CDE is\u00a0a\u00a0is a registered dietitian based in Palm Beach, Florida. She\u00a0completed her Master of Food and Nutrition and Dietetic Internship at Bowling Green State University.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Maryann Walsh, MFN, RD, CDE<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"Maryann Walsh\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/19mL9j9qNaz1wrNOOvLSaKGaUKk=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/_7.MaryannWalshMFNRDCDE-fb8f586b1c97461893f4cadcd38ee695.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/19mL9j9qNaz1wrNOOvLSaKGaUKk=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/_7.MaryannWalshMFNRDCDE-fb8f586b1c97461893f4cadcd38ee695.jpg\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Maryann Walsh\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Medically reviewed by<\/span><br \/>\nMaryann Walsh, MFN, RD, CDE\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nMaryann Walsh, MFN, RD, CDE is\u00a0a\u00a0is a registered dietitian based in Palm Beach, Florida. She\u00a0completed her Master of Food and Nutrition and Dietetic Internship at Bowling Green State University.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nABOUT BYRDIE&#8217;S BEAUTY &amp; WELLNESS BOARD\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-postscript\">Registered Dietitian<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--fact_checker\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Fact checked by<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Anna Harris is an experienced fact-checker and researcher and a beauty writer and editor.\u00a0\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Anna Harris<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top mntl-author-tooltip__top--no-image\">\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Fact checked by<\/span><br \/>\nAnna Harris\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nAnna Harris is an experienced fact-checker and researcher and a beauty writer and editor.\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nLEARN ABOUT BYRDIE&#8217;S EDITORIAL GUIDELINES\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-left-rail\">\n<div id=\"beauty-sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-sticky-toc mntl-block js-sticky-container sticky-toc__wrapper\">\n<div id=\"sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc mntl-universal-sticky-toc mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block sticky-toc-widget\" data-desktop-bp=\"70em\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"true\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading mntl-block js-toc-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle__btn_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle__btn mntl-text-block js-mntl-toc-toggle text-label-300\" data-click-tracked=\"true\" data-collapsed-text=\"View All\" data-expanded-text=\"View Less\">View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__mobile-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__mobile-toggle mntl-block js-sticky-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-toc__list_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list mntl-toc__list-heading expert-content text-utility-300\">\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Sugar Addiction<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">What is a Sugar Detox?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Why Go on a Sugar Detox?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Why Do We Crave Sugar?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Breakfast<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Lunch<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Dinner<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Snacks<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Hidden Sugars to Avoid<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Eating Fruit on a Sugar Detox<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">What are the side effects of a Sugar Detox?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/5BfKcq_UYWip9pnN7rtB-WCG0xc=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/sugar-1-e4548588cc3748f09d51d6f0220a81ba.jpg\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" alt=\"A decorated cake with pink frosting cherries on top a table setting with tea in the background and a hand holding a piece of cake\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/5BfKcq_UYWip9pnN7rtB-WCG0xc=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/sugar-1-e4548588cc3748f09d51d6f0220a81ba.jpg\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"A decorated cake with pink frosting cherries on top a table setting with tea in the background and a hand holding a piece of cake\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>A sugar detox involves eliminating added sugars, which differ from naturally occurring sugars found in fruits and vegetables.<\/li>\n<li>Experts advise choosing protein-rich meals to prevent sugar cravings and stabilize energy levels.<\/li>\n<li>Snacks like hard-boiled eggs or green smoothies are recommended for managing hunger and maintaining stable blood sugar levels.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Breaking up with sugar is bittersweet. But, going on a sugar detox may be simpler (and indeed, sweeter) than you think. Ahead, nutrition experts share a detailed sugar detox diet plan that will keep you satiated all day, while keeping sugar cravings at bay. Plus, get the inside scoop on hidden sugars to avoid, and learn what causes sugar cravings in the first place.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Lauren O&#8217;Connor is a Registered Dietitian, the author of<em>\u00a0Healthy Cooking for One Cookbook<\/em>, and the owner of Nutri-Savvy.<\/li>\n<li>Elizabeth Adrian, RDN, CDN, is a Senior Registered Dietitian at\u00a0Season Health.<\/li>\n<li>Darby Jackson is a certified holistic health coach, personal trainer, and the founder of\u00a0Darby Jackson Well-Being.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Sugar Addiction <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Studies show that we can become biologically addicted to sugar, just as we would other substances like drugs or alcohol, which might explain why statistics on sugar consumption are so staggering. A report from the University of California San Francisco explains that the recommended daily added sugar consumption is no more than six teaspoons (or 25 grams.) However, the average American consumes 17 teaspoons, or around 71 grams, per day. It&#8217;s scary stuff.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What is a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;Put simply, a sugar detox involves cutting added sugars from your diet for a period of time,&#8221; says Elizabeth Adrian, RDN, CDN, a Senior Registered Dietitian at\u00a0Season Health. &#8220;For people who are interested in cutting or reducing added sugars in their diet, it\u2019s important to note the difference between added sugars and natural sugars. Major sources of added sugars include sugary beverages, desserts, sweet snacks, and candy. The calories in added sugar are empty calories, meaning there is little nutritional value. In contrast, natural sugars are those sugars found naturally in foods such as vegetables, fruits, grains, and dairy products. From a nutrition perspective, it is not advised to cut out any of the aforementioned food groups because of their fiber, vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant properties.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Go on a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Sugar isn&#8217;t a necessity. It can be removed from our diets and kitchen cabinets with a bit of conscious effort and the right mix of nutritious foods to keep us full and satisfied. But, for most of us, our bodies are accustomed to all the sugar we routinely feed ourselves, so we are seemingly programmed to crave more. To reset and erase these cravings, a sugar detox\u2014a deliberate effort to minimize as much sugar as possible from our diet\u2014may be necessary. To help us craft the best sugar detox diet plan and determine exactly what to eat to kick the sugar habit to the curb, we turned to two nutrition experts who gave us a doable meal plan. The best part? A lot of it sounds mouthwateringly delicious.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Do We Crave Sugar? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> First, it&#8217;s good to know we&#8217;re not lacking in self-control or willpower when it comes to sugar cravings. &#8220;Our biological addiction to sugar comes from primitive neurochemical reward centers in our brains that light up when we consume sugar,&#8221; Holistic health coach Darby Jackson explains.\u00a0&#8220;These reward centers used to help keep us alive by signaling to our bodies that we need to eat more sugar to put on fat and stay alive when food was scarce. Now, food is everywhere, yet our bodies are still programmed to consume sugar when we see it.&#8221; To counteract this natural response, Jackson says,\u00a0&#8220;it&#8217;s important for us to set our bodies up to control these cravings through a healthy diet and lifestyle.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> But that doesn&#8217;t mean quitting sugar all at once. &#8220;Start by recognizing how much sugar is in the food you are currently eating. Read the labels, look for &#8216;hidden sugars&#8217; and stick to more whole foods,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. (Find more on hidden sugars below.) \u201cThen, wean yourself off by consuming less of the bread, crackers, chips, and even energy bars, some of which are practically candy bars in disguise.&#8221; Consuming less sweet and processed foods is the goal, but she cautions against depriving yourself entirely. &#8220;Although it can be tricky, you\u2019ve got to stick to your plan. Cold turkey may be easier in the short term because your body isn\u2019t responding to sugar\u2019s incessant and nagging effect on the brain and the body. Still, in most cases, deprivation can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food, and in some cases, binging.&#8221;\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Ahead, read our experts&#8217; sample diet plan for a low-sugar daily diet. (There are even some treats included.)<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Breakfast <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Whole eggs (either scrambled or in an omelet) or a yogurt parfait with plain yogurt, nuts, and seeds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Jackson agrees that slow and steady is best for a lifestyle change, and it all starts with the first meal of the day. &#8220;The easiest way to start is by adjusting just your breakfast for an entire week,&#8221; she says. &#8220;Focus on foods in the morning that are high in quality protein as well as healthy fats, as these foods will keep you fuller longer and suppress cravings, but give you energy.&#8221; She recommends eating whole scrambled eggs cooked in coconut oil, which will provide both that necessary healthy protein and fat (as a bonus, it&#8217;s super easy and quick to make on early work mornings when we have zero motivation).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Registered dietician Lauren O&#8217;Connor similarly recommends a veggie-filled omelet with shredded cheese, though her favorite breakfast is a yogurt parfait. Just be sure to use plain, unsweetened yogurt and a low-sugar and high-protein granola. Then, sprinkle in some nuts, seeds, and berries.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Lunch <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>A salad with a variety of veggies, legumes, and healthy fats.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For lunch, keep up with the protein, fiber, and healthy fats combo.\u00a0&#8220;The best way to detox from sugar is to make sure that you are consuming protein and healthy fats. Protein will keep you feeling fuller longer and can also help reduce cravings, while healthy fats like coconut oil and avocado will help stabilize your blood sugar and give you the energy you need to power through your day,&#8221; Jackson says.\u00a0Try preparing a colorful salad that&#8217;s topped with beans, quinoa, or lentils and drizzled with olive oil. It has the nutrients your body needs and will give you sustained energy all afternoon long (so you can avoid that 3 p.m. slump that usually requires a cup\u2014or two\u2014of coffee to overcome).\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Your lunch break\u00a0is also a good time to check in with your hydration levels. Water is important to the body&#8217;s metabolic processes and also keeps you feeling energized and alert. Plus, it might prevent you from breaking your sugar detox to scarf down one of those conference room donuts. &#8220;When a person sees a sweet treat such as a glazed donut, pleasure signals are triggered in the brain,&#8221; O&#8217;Connor explains. &#8220;The mind is a powerful thing. Simply seeing something pleasurable can elicit a desire. However, drinking water can delay your response and give you time to evaluate whether or not it\u2019s a good choice to consume (or if just a bite or two will do).&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Dinner <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Roasted vegetables with wild salmon, avocado, and brown rice.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Again, it\u2019s all about a vegetable-based meal that includes protein and healthy fats. &#8220;You can certainly include whole grains such as brown rice and quinoa, but limit (don\u2019t restrict) the bread intake and other refined starches,&#8221; advises O&#8217;Connor. Try a roasted vegetable medley with a serving of wild salmon, avocado, and brown rice. It&#8217;s still warm and filling, but\u00a0without the extra calories and unhealthy fat that comes with many hot meals, like cream-based soups and starchy pasta dishes.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Start with a base of spinach and cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts and cauliflower before adding carrots, sweet potato, broccoli, or radishes\u2014all of which can be roasted in olive oil.\u00a0Top it off with a freshly prepared salmon filet and some avocado. We don&#8217;t know about you, but that sounds <em>so<\/em> appetizing, <em>so<\/em> filling, and <em>so<\/em> satisfying to us.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Snacks <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_43-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Hard-boiled eggs, a green smoothie, plain yogurt with berries, Wasa crackers and cottage cheese, edamame, or crudit\u00e9s and hummus.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_45-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> O\u2019Connor says that whether you choose to have snacks or not during your detox is up to you, and you should listen to your body to help you decide if you need one or not. \u201cSome people do fine with just three meals, [while] others benefit from smaller meals and a snack or two,\u201d she explains. \u201cIf you start to feel a little peckish between your meals, then please have a snack. \u2018Starving\u2019 or restricting to save on calories may lead to binges later on.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_47-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Because they are a great source of satiating protein and don\u2019t contain sugar, hard-boiled or deviled eggs are one of O\u2019Connor\u2019s top choices for a healthy snack during a sugar detox. \u201cThe yolk contains plenty of nutrients, including bone-protective calcium and B vitamins, which are essential for brain health.\u201d She recommends enjoying them with a little Dijon mustard.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_49-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you\u2019re more in the mood for something cold and refreshing, grab your blender. \u201cTry a green smoothie made with a handful of spinach, 4 to 5 cubes of pineapple,\u00a0\u00bd a small avocado, and your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk,\u201d says O\u2019Connor. \u201cIt\u2019s got just enough natural sweetness in the mix for a tasty balance, [and] the healthy fats and fiber will keep your blood sugars level.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_51-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> O\u2019Connor says that plain yogurt with berries is also an excellent choice for a snack that will help keep blood sugar levels under control. The protein from the yogurt and antioxidant-rich berries offer a nutritious, satiating snack that can feel indulgent.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_53-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you\u2019re craving something more savory, O\u2019Connor suggests Wasa crisp crackers and cottage cheese. \u201cYou\u2019ll get plenty of whole-grain fiber from the crackers (3g per serving) and a good dose of protein in this low-sugar snack,\u201d she notes. Or, opt for \u00bd cup of edamame, which you can buy fresh or frozen (and then thaw or heat to your liking). According to O\u2019Connor, \u201cThese beans pack in fiber and protein for a convenient and satisfying snack-savvy option, [or for] more flavor, saut\u00e9 them lightly with minced garlic and add a touch of sea salt.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_55-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Lastly, O\u2019Connor recommends crudit\u00e9s (carrot, celery, zucchini sticks, radish, etc.) with \u00bc cup of hummus or \u00bd cup of plain low-fat Greek yogurt seasoned with lemon juice or zest and a pinch of sea salt or your favorite seasoning blend. \u201cI recommend Tajine, Zaatar, or \u2018Everything But the Bagel\u2019 for ultimate flavor,\u201d she adds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_57-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you have a strong craving for a piece of fresh fruit, it\u2019s possible to make that work, even during a sugar detox. \u201cIf you are worried about the sugar (all fruit contains natural sugars), just add a loose handful of nuts or seeds,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. \u201cThe healthy fat will keep those blood sugars stable and provide a little more satiation.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_59-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you do want to try and limit your snacking, especially mindless eating, O\u2019Connor has a few tips:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_61-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Drink plenty of water throughout the day.<\/li>\n<li>Space out your meals evenly during the day.<\/li>\n<li>Be mindful while you eat (sit down when you eat, don\u2019t eat while distracted), chew your food, and eat slowly. \u201cYou\u2019re more likely to recognize how much you are eating and better recall it at the end of the day,\u201d she says.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_63-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Hidden Sugars to Avoid <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_64-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> During a sugar detox, you want to avoid snacks that are high in sugars or highly processed snacks such as pretzels, cookies, fruit snacks, low-fiber crackers, cereal bars, and chips. But, there are less obvious foods that are better left on the shelf and out of your diet. For example, some \u201chealthy\u201d foods like packaged granola contain lots of added sugars, as well as partially hydrogenated oils. \u201cThere are hidden sugars in many of our packaged convenience foods. And often, many of these don\u2019t necessarily taste particularly sweet,\u201d explains O\u2019Connor. \u201cSome wheat bread, for instance, may contain barley malt and other &#8216;sugars,&#8217; such as honey to balance the flavor, but we don\u2019t consider this dessert.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_66-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Granola bars, and even \u201cprotein bars,\u201d also often masquerade as something healthier than they are. \u201cWhile some energy bars are formulated to be low in sugars and high in protein and\/or healthy fats, there are so many that contain an excess of added sugars, chemicals, and fillers we don\u2019t need. So, you\u2019ve got to read those labels,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. \u201cRather than decipher through a laundry list of ingredients, make your own trail mix\u2014just be sure to limit the dried fruit (to one tablespoon) because it\u2019s concentrated in sugars.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_68-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Also, be aware of drinking too much alcohol. It&#8217;s less satisfying than food but still adds a lot of calories to our day with its hidden sugars. &#8220;Not only that,&#8221; says O&#8217;Connor, but &#8220;alcohol impairs our judgment, so we tend to eat &#8216;more freely&#8217; as opposed to sticking to moderation.&#8221;\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_70-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Eating Fruit on a Sugar Detox <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_71-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Aside from packaged and processed foods and alcohol, also avoid eating too much fruit. Jackson says\u00a0it can have\u00a0adverse effects on the body and encourage more sugar cravings. &#8220;There is a place for a little fruit in everyone&#8217;s diet and it isn&#8217;t something that should be completely cut out, but too much fruit can be very detrimental to your body,&#8221; she says. &#8220;It&#8217;s packed with sugar, especially in juice form, and is just setting your body up for an insulin crash. Be mindful when you pick up a &#8216;green juice&#8217; and check to see how much sugar is in the bottle. If you are going to eat fruit, aim for lower-sugar fruits like berries, which are also packed with other nutrients.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_73-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--tips beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-tips\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Byrdie Tip<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>A good fruit choice is a clementine or Mandarin orange because the segments help you eat more mindfully and savor each bite.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_74-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What are the side effects of a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_75-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;As with many diet and wellness trends, a sugar detox has both pros and cons,&#8221; says Adrian. &#8220;A true &#8216;sugar detox&#8217; typically involves going cold turkey\u2014at least to start. However, this can lead to unpleasant side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, and low blood sugar.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_77-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> She adds: &#8220;Though there are benefits to reducing the amount of added sugar in your diet, research shows that cutting out certain foods or food groups is typically not effective or sustainable in the long term. Instead of going cold turkey, I would advise starting slowly by gradually reducing the amount of added sugars in your diet. This will help prevent you from experiencing those unwanted symptoms and you\u2019ll likely be more successful in the long run. Aim to stay below the American Heart Association\u2019s recommendations of no more than six teaspoons of added sugar per day for women and nine teaspoons for men.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources mntl-article-sources mntl-expandable-block u-article-styles\" data-scroll-offset=\"70\">\n<div class=\"loc toggle-content\">\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__wrapper mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"true\"><span id=\"mntl-article-sources__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__heading mntl-text-block\">Article Sources<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc expandable-content\">\n<div id=\"citation-sources__text_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources__text mntl-text-block\">Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__citation-sources mntl-citation-sources mntl-sources\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ol class=\"mntl-sources__content\">\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-1\">\n<p>DiNicolantonio JJ, O&#8217;Keefe JH, Wilson WL. Sugar addiction: is it real? a narrative review.\u00a0<em>Br J Sports Med<\/em>. 2018;52(14):910-913. doi:10.1136\/bjsports-2017-097971<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-2\">\n<p>University of California San Francisco SugarScience. How much is too Much? the growing concern over too much added sugar in our diets.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Health &amp; Wellness<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Nutrition<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/5BfKcq_UYWip9pnN7rtB-WCG0xc=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/sugar-1-e4548588cc3748f09d51d6f0220a81ba.jpg\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" alt=\"A decorated cake with pink frosting cherries on top a table setting with tea in the background and a hand holding a piece of cake\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/5BfKcq_UYWip9pnN7rtB-WCG0xc=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/sugar-1-e4548588cc3748f09d51d6f0220a81ba.jpg\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"A decorated cake with pink frosting cherries on top a table setting with tea in the background and a hand holding a piece of cake\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>A sugar detox involves eliminating added sugars, which differ from naturally occurring sugars found in fruits and vegetables.<\/li>\n<li>Experts advise choosing protein-rich meals to prevent sugar cravings and stabilize energy levels.<\/li>\n<li>Snacks like hard-boiled eggs or green smoothies are recommended for managing hunger and maintaining stable blood sugar levels.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Breaking up with sugar is bittersweet. But, going on a sugar detox may be simpler (and indeed, sweeter) than you think. Ahead, nutrition experts share a detailed sugar detox diet plan that will keep you satiated all day, while keeping sugar cravings at bay. Plus, get the inside scoop on hidden sugars to avoid, and learn what causes sugar cravings in the first place.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Lauren O&#8217;Connor is a Registered Dietitian, the author of<em>\u00a0Healthy Cooking for One Cookbook<\/em>, and the owner of Nutri-Savvy.<\/li>\n<li>Elizabeth Adrian, RDN, CDN, is a Senior Registered Dietitian at\u00a0Season Health.<\/li>\n<li>Darby Jackson is a certified holistic health coach, personal trainer, and the founder of\u00a0Darby Jackson Well-Being.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Sugar Addiction <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Studies show that we can become biologically addicted to sugar, just as we would other substances like drugs or alcohol, which might explain why statistics on sugar consumption are so staggering. A report from the University of California San Francisco explains that the recommended daily added sugar consumption is no more than six teaspoons (or 25 grams.) However, the average American consumes 17 teaspoons, or around 71 grams, per day. It&#8217;s scary stuff.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What is a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;Put simply, a sugar detox involves cutting added sugars from your diet for a period of time,&#8221; says Elizabeth Adrian, RDN, CDN, a Senior Registered Dietitian at\u00a0Season Health. &#8220;For people who are interested in cutting or reducing added sugars in their diet, it\u2019s important to note the difference between added sugars and natural sugars. Major sources of added sugars include sugary beverages, desserts, sweet snacks, and candy. The calories in added sugar are empty calories, meaning there is little nutritional value. In contrast, natural sugars are those sugars found naturally in foods such as vegetables, fruits, grains, and dairy products. From a nutrition perspective, it is not advised to cut out any of the aforementioned food groups because of their fiber, vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant properties.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Go on a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Sugar isn&#8217;t a necessity. It can be removed from our diets and kitchen cabinets with a bit of conscious effort and the right mix of nutritious foods to keep us full and satisfied. But, for most of us, our bodies are accustomed to all the sugar we routinely feed ourselves, so we are seemingly programmed to crave more. To reset and erase these cravings, a sugar detox\u2014a deliberate effort to minimize as much sugar as possible from our diet\u2014may be necessary. To help us craft the best sugar detox diet plan and determine exactly what to eat to kick the sugar habit to the curb, we turned to two nutrition experts who gave us a doable meal plan. The best part? A lot of it sounds mouthwateringly delicious.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Do We Crave Sugar? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> First, it&#8217;s good to know we&#8217;re not lacking in self-control or willpower when it comes to sugar cravings. &#8220;Our biological addiction to sugar comes from primitive neurochemical reward centers in our brains that light up when we consume sugar,&#8221; Holistic health coach Darby Jackson explains.\u00a0&#8220;These reward centers used to help keep us alive by signaling to our bodies that we need to eat more sugar to put on fat and stay alive when food was scarce. Now, food is everywhere, yet our bodies are still programmed to consume sugar when we see it.&#8221; To counteract this natural response, Jackson says,\u00a0&#8220;it&#8217;s important for us to set our bodies up to control these cravings through a healthy diet and lifestyle.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> But that doesn&#8217;t mean quitting sugar all at once. &#8220;Start by recognizing how much sugar is in the food you are currently eating. Read the labels, look for &#8216;hidden sugars&#8217; and stick to more whole foods,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. (Find more on hidden sugars below.) \u201cThen, wean yourself off by consuming less of the bread, crackers, chips, and even energy bars, some of which are practically candy bars in disguise.&#8221; Consuming less sweet and processed foods is the goal, but she cautions against depriving yourself entirely. &#8220;Although it can be tricky, you\u2019ve got to stick to your plan. Cold turkey may be easier in the short term because your body isn\u2019t responding to sugar\u2019s incessant and nagging effect on the brain and the body. Still, in most cases, deprivation can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food, and in some cases, binging.&#8221;\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Ahead, read our experts&#8217; sample diet plan for a low-sugar daily diet. (There are even some treats included.)<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Breakfast <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Whole eggs (either scrambled or in an omelet) or a yogurt parfait with plain yogurt, nuts, and seeds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Jackson agrees that slow and steady is best for a lifestyle change, and it all starts with the first meal of the day. &#8220;The easiest way to start is by adjusting just your breakfast for an entire week,&#8221; she says. &#8220;Focus on foods in the morning that are high in quality protein as well as healthy fats, as these foods will keep you fuller longer and suppress cravings, but give you energy.&#8221; She recommends eating whole scrambled eggs cooked in coconut oil, which will provide both that necessary healthy protein and fat (as a bonus, it&#8217;s super easy and quick to make on early work mornings when we have zero motivation).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Registered dietician Lauren O&#8217;Connor similarly recommends a veggie-filled omelet with shredded cheese, though her favorite breakfast is a yogurt parfait. Just be sure to use plain, unsweetened yogurt and a low-sugar and high-protein granola. Then, sprinkle in some nuts, seeds, and berries.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Lunch <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>A salad with a variety of veggies, legumes, and healthy fats.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For lunch, keep up with the protein, fiber, and healthy fats combo.\u00a0&#8220;The best way to detox from sugar is to make sure that you are consuming protein and healthy fats. Protein will keep you feeling fuller longer and can also help reduce cravings, while healthy fats like coconut oil and avocado will help stabilize your blood sugar and give you the energy you need to power through your day,&#8221; Jackson says.\u00a0Try preparing a colorful salad that&#8217;s topped with beans, quinoa, or lentils and drizzled with olive oil. It has the nutrients your body needs and will give you sustained energy all afternoon long (so you can avoid that 3 p.m. slump that usually requires a cup\u2014or two\u2014of coffee to overcome).\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Your lunch break\u00a0is also a good time to check in with your hydration levels. Water is important to the body&#8217;s metabolic processes and also keeps you feeling energized and alert. Plus, it might prevent you from breaking your sugar detox to scarf down one of those conference room donuts. &#8220;When a person sees a sweet treat such as a glazed donut, pleasure signals are triggered in the brain,&#8221; O&#8217;Connor explains. &#8220;The mind is a powerful thing. Simply seeing something pleasurable can elicit a desire. However, drinking water can delay your response and give you time to evaluate whether or not it\u2019s a good choice to consume (or if just a bite or two will do).&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Dinner <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Roasted vegetables with wild salmon, avocado, and brown rice.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Again, it\u2019s all about a vegetable-based meal that includes protein and healthy fats. &#8220;You can certainly include whole grains such as brown rice and quinoa, but limit (don\u2019t restrict) the bread intake and other refined starches,&#8221; advises O&#8217;Connor. Try a roasted vegetable medley with a serving of wild salmon, avocado, and brown rice. It&#8217;s still warm and filling, but\u00a0without the extra calories and unhealthy fat that comes with many hot meals, like cream-based soups and starchy pasta dishes.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Start with a base of spinach and cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts and cauliflower before adding carrots, sweet potato, broccoli, or radishes\u2014all of which can be roasted in olive oil.\u00a0Top it off with a freshly prepared salmon filet and some avocado. We don&#8217;t know about you, but that sounds <em>so<\/em> appetizing, <em>so<\/em> filling, and <em>so<\/em> satisfying to us.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Snacks <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_43-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Hard-boiled eggs, a green smoothie, plain yogurt with berries, Wasa crackers and cottage cheese, edamame, or crudit\u00e9s and hummus.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_45-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> O\u2019Connor says that whether you choose to have snacks or not during your detox is up to you, and you should listen to your body to help you decide if you need one or not. \u201cSome people do fine with just three meals, [while] others benefit from smaller meals and a snack or two,\u201d she explains. \u201cIf you start to feel a little peckish between your meals, then please have a snack. \u2018Starving\u2019 or restricting to save on calories may lead to binges later on.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_47-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Because they are a great source of satiating protein and don\u2019t contain sugar, hard-boiled or deviled eggs are one of O\u2019Connor\u2019s top choices for a healthy snack during a sugar detox. \u201cThe yolk contains plenty of nutrients, including bone-protective calcium and B vitamins, which are essential for brain health.\u201d She recommends enjoying them with a little Dijon mustard.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_49-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you\u2019re more in the mood for something cold and refreshing, grab your blender. \u201cTry a green smoothie made with a handful of spinach, 4 to 5 cubes of pineapple,\u00a0\u00bd a small avocado, and your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk,\u201d says O\u2019Connor. \u201cIt\u2019s got just enough natural sweetness in the mix for a tasty balance, [and] the healthy fats and fiber will keep your blood sugars level.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_51-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> O\u2019Connor says that plain yogurt with berries is also an excellent choice for a snack that will help keep blood sugar levels under control. The protein from the yogurt and antioxidant-rich berries offer a nutritious, satiating snack that can feel indulgent.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_53-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you\u2019re craving something more savory, O\u2019Connor suggests Wasa crisp crackers and cottage cheese. \u201cYou\u2019ll get plenty of whole-grain fiber from the crackers (3g per serving) and a good dose of protein in this low-sugar snack,\u201d she notes. Or, opt for \u00bd cup of edamame, which you can buy fresh or frozen (and then thaw or heat to your liking). According to O\u2019Connor, \u201cThese beans pack in fiber and protein for a convenient and satisfying snack-savvy option, [or for] more flavor, saut\u00e9 them lightly with minced garlic and add a touch of sea salt.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_55-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Lastly, O\u2019Connor recommends crudit\u00e9s (carrot, celery, zucchini sticks, radish, etc.) with \u00bc cup of hummus or \u00bd cup of plain low-fat Greek yogurt seasoned with lemon juice or zest and a pinch of sea salt or your favorite seasoning blend. \u201cI recommend Tajine, Zaatar, or \u2018Everything But the Bagel\u2019 for ultimate flavor,\u201d she adds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_57-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you have a strong craving for a piece of fresh fruit, it\u2019s possible to make that work, even during a sugar detox. \u201cIf you are worried about the sugar (all fruit contains natural sugars), just add a loose handful of nuts or seeds,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. \u201cThe healthy fat will keep those blood sugars stable and provide a little more satiation.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_59-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you do want to try and limit your snacking, especially mindless eating, O\u2019Connor has a few tips:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_61-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Drink plenty of water throughout the day.<\/li>\n<li>Space out your meals evenly during the day.<\/li>\n<li>Be mindful while you eat (sit down when you eat, don\u2019t eat while distracted), chew your food, and eat slowly. \u201cYou\u2019re more likely to recognize how much you are eating and better recall it at the end of the day,\u201d she says.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_63-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Hidden Sugars to Avoid <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_64-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> During a sugar detox, you want to avoid snacks that are high in sugars or highly processed snacks such as pretzels, cookies, fruit snacks, low-fiber crackers, cereal bars, and chips. But, there are less obvious foods that are better left on the shelf and out of your diet. For example, some \u201chealthy\u201d foods like packaged granola contain lots of added sugars, as well as partially hydrogenated oils. \u201cThere are hidden sugars in many of our packaged convenience foods. And often, many of these don\u2019t necessarily taste particularly sweet,\u201d explains O\u2019Connor. \u201cSome wheat bread, for instance, may contain barley malt and other &#8216;sugars,&#8217; such as honey to balance the flavor, but we don\u2019t consider this dessert.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_66-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Granola bars, and even \u201cprotein bars,\u201d also often masquerade as something healthier than they are. \u201cWhile some energy bars are formulated to be low in sugars and high in protein and\/or healthy fats, there are so many that contain an excess of added sugars, chemicals, and fillers we don\u2019t need. So, you\u2019ve got to read those labels,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. \u201cRather than decipher through a laundry list of ingredients, make your own trail mix\u2014just be sure to limit the dried fruit (to one tablespoon) because it\u2019s concentrated in sugars.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_68-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Also, be aware of drinking too much alcohol. It&#8217;s less satisfying than food but still adds a lot of calories to our day with its hidden sugars. &#8220;Not only that,&#8221; says O&#8217;Connor, but &#8220;alcohol impairs our judgment, so we tend to eat &#8216;more freely&#8217; as opposed to sticking to moderation.&#8221;\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_70-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Eating Fruit on a Sugar Detox <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_71-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Aside from packaged and processed foods and alcohol, also avoid eating too much fruit. Jackson says\u00a0it can have\u00a0adverse effects on the body and encourage more sugar cravings. &#8220;There is a place for a little fruit in everyone&#8217;s diet and it isn&#8217;t something that should be completely cut out, but too much fruit can be very detrimental to your body,&#8221; she says. &#8220;It&#8217;s packed with sugar, especially in juice form, and is just setting your body up for an insulin crash. Be mindful when you pick up a &#8216;green juice&#8217; and check to see how much sugar is in the bottle. If you are going to eat fruit, aim for lower-sugar fruits like berries, which are also packed with other nutrients.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_73-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--tips beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-tips\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Byrdie Tip<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>A good fruit choice is a clementine or Mandarin orange because the segments help you eat more mindfully and savor each bite.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_74-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What are the side effects of a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_75-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;As with many diet and wellness trends, a sugar detox has both pros and cons,&#8221; says Adrian. &#8220;A true &#8216;sugar detox&#8217; typically involves going cold turkey\u2014at least to start. However, this can lead to unpleasant side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, and low blood sugar.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_77-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> She adds: &#8220;Though there are benefits to reducing the amount of added sugar in your diet, research shows that cutting out certain foods or food groups is typically not effective or sustainable in the long term. Instead of going cold turkey, I would advise starting slowly by gradually reducing the amount of added sugars in your diet. This will help prevent you from experiencing those unwanted symptoms and you\u2019ll likely be more successful in the long run. Aim to stay below the American Heart Association\u2019s recommendations of no more than six teaspoons of added sugar per day for women and nine teaspoons for men.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources mntl-article-sources mntl-expandable-block u-article-styles\" data-scroll-offset=\"70\">\n<div class=\"loc toggle-content\">\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__wrapper mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"true\"><span id=\"mntl-article-sources__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__heading mntl-text-block\">Article Sources<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc expandable-content\">\n<div id=\"citation-sources__text_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources__text mntl-text-block\">Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__citation-sources mntl-citation-sources mntl-sources\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ol class=\"mntl-sources__content\">\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-1\">\n<p>DiNicolantonio JJ, O&#8217;Keefe JH, Wilson WL. Sugar addiction: is it real? a narrative review.\u00a0<em>Br J Sports Med<\/em>. 2018;52(14):910-913. doi:10.1136\/bjsports-2017-097971<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-2\">\n<p>University of California San Francisco SugarScience. How much is too Much? the growing concern over too much added sugar in our diets.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>A sugar detox involves eliminating added sugars, which differ from naturally occurring sugars found in fruits and vegetables.<\/li>\n<li>Experts advise choosing protein-rich meals to prevent sugar cravings and stabilize energy levels.<\/li>\n<li>Snacks like hard-boiled eggs or green smoothies are recommended for managing hunger and maintaining stable blood sugar levels.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Breaking up with sugar is bittersweet. But, going on a sugar detox may be simpler (and indeed, sweeter) than you think. Ahead, nutrition experts share a detailed sugar detox diet plan that will keep you satiated all day, while keeping sugar cravings at bay. Plus, get the inside scoop on hidden sugars to avoid, and learn what causes sugar cravings in the first place.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Lauren O&#8217;Connor is a Registered Dietitian, the author of<em>\u00a0Healthy Cooking for One Cookbook<\/em>, and the owner of Nutri-Savvy.<\/li>\n<li>Elizabeth Adrian, RDN, CDN, is a Senior Registered Dietitian at\u00a0Season Health.<\/li>\n<li>Darby Jackson is a certified holistic health coach, personal trainer, and the founder of\u00a0Darby Jackson Well-Being.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Sugar Addiction <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Studies show that we can become biologically addicted to sugar, just as we would other substances like drugs or alcohol, which might explain why statistics on sugar consumption are so staggering. A report from the University of California San Francisco explains that the recommended daily added sugar consumption is no more than six teaspoons (or 25 grams.) However, the average American consumes 17 teaspoons, or around 71 grams, per day. It&#8217;s scary stuff.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What is a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;Put simply, a sugar detox involves cutting added sugars from your diet for a period of time,&#8221; says Elizabeth Adrian, RDN, CDN, a Senior Registered Dietitian at\u00a0Season Health. &#8220;For people who are interested in cutting or reducing added sugars in their diet, it\u2019s important to note the difference between added sugars and natural sugars. Major sources of added sugars include sugary beverages, desserts, sweet snacks, and candy. The calories in added sugar are empty calories, meaning there is little nutritional value. In contrast, natural sugars are those sugars found naturally in foods such as vegetables, fruits, grains, and dairy products. From a nutrition perspective, it is not advised to cut out any of the aforementioned food groups because of their fiber, vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant properties.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Go on a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Sugar isn&#8217;t a necessity. It can be removed from our diets and kitchen cabinets with a bit of conscious effort and the right mix of nutritious foods to keep us full and satisfied. But, for most of us, our bodies are accustomed to all the sugar we routinely feed ourselves, so we are seemingly programmed to crave more. To reset and erase these cravings, a sugar detox\u2014a deliberate effort to minimize as much sugar as possible from our diet\u2014may be necessary. To help us craft the best sugar detox diet plan and determine exactly what to eat to kick the sugar habit to the curb, we turned to two nutrition experts who gave us a doable meal plan. The best part? A lot of it sounds mouthwateringly delicious.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Do We Crave Sugar? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> First, it&#8217;s good to know we&#8217;re not lacking in self-control or willpower when it comes to sugar cravings. &#8220;Our biological addiction to sugar comes from primitive neurochemical reward centers in our brains that light up when we consume sugar,&#8221; Holistic health coach Darby Jackson explains.\u00a0&#8220;These reward centers used to help keep us alive by signaling to our bodies that we need to eat more sugar to put on fat and stay alive when food was scarce. Now, food is everywhere, yet our bodies are still programmed to consume sugar when we see it.&#8221; To counteract this natural response, Jackson says,\u00a0&#8220;it&#8217;s important for us to set our bodies up to control these cravings through a healthy diet and lifestyle.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> But that doesn&#8217;t mean quitting sugar all at once. &#8220;Start by recognizing how much sugar is in the food you are currently eating. Read the labels, look for &#8216;hidden sugars&#8217; and stick to more whole foods,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. (Find more on hidden sugars below.) \u201cThen, wean yourself off by consuming less of the bread, crackers, chips, and even energy bars, some of which are practically candy bars in disguise.&#8221; Consuming less sweet and processed foods is the goal, but she cautions against depriving yourself entirely. &#8220;Although it can be tricky, you\u2019ve got to stick to your plan. Cold turkey may be easier in the short term because your body isn\u2019t responding to sugar\u2019s incessant and nagging effect on the brain and the body. Still, in most cases, deprivation can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food, and in some cases, binging.&#8221;\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Ahead, read our experts&#8217; sample diet plan for a low-sugar daily diet. (There are even some treats included.)<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Breakfast <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Whole eggs (either scrambled or in an omelet) or a yogurt parfait with plain yogurt, nuts, and seeds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Jackson agrees that slow and steady is best for a lifestyle change, and it all starts with the first meal of the day. &#8220;The easiest way to start is by adjusting just your breakfast for an entire week,&#8221; she says. &#8220;Focus on foods in the morning that are high in quality protein as well as healthy fats, as these foods will keep you fuller longer and suppress cravings, but give you energy.&#8221; She recommends eating whole scrambled eggs cooked in coconut oil, which will provide both that necessary healthy protein and fat (as a bonus, it&#8217;s super easy and quick to make on early work mornings when we have zero motivation).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Registered dietician Lauren O&#8217;Connor similarly recommends a veggie-filled omelet with shredded cheese, though her favorite breakfast is a yogurt parfait. Just be sure to use plain, unsweetened yogurt and a low-sugar and high-protein granola. Then, sprinkle in some nuts, seeds, and berries.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Lunch <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>A salad with a variety of veggies, legumes, and healthy fats.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For lunch, keep up with the protein, fiber, and healthy fats combo.\u00a0&#8220;The best way to detox from sugar is to make sure that you are consuming protein and healthy fats. Protein will keep you feeling fuller longer and can also help reduce cravings, while healthy fats like coconut oil and avocado will help stabilize your blood sugar and give you the energy you need to power through your day,&#8221; Jackson says.\u00a0Try preparing a colorful salad that&#8217;s topped with beans, quinoa, or lentils and drizzled with olive oil. It has the nutrients your body needs and will give you sustained energy all afternoon long (so you can avoid that 3 p.m. slump that usually requires a cup\u2014or two\u2014of coffee to overcome).\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Your lunch break\u00a0is also a good time to check in with your hydration levels. Water is important to the body&#8217;s metabolic processes and also keeps you feeling energized and alert. Plus, it might prevent you from breaking your sugar detox to scarf down one of those conference room donuts. &#8220;When a person sees a sweet treat such as a glazed donut, pleasure signals are triggered in the brain,&#8221; O&#8217;Connor explains. &#8220;The mind is a powerful thing. Simply seeing something pleasurable can elicit a desire. However, drinking water can delay your response and give you time to evaluate whether or not it\u2019s a good choice to consume (or if just a bite or two will do).&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Dinner <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Roasted vegetables with wild salmon, avocado, and brown rice.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Again, it\u2019s all about a vegetable-based meal that includes protein and healthy fats. &#8220;You can certainly include whole grains such as brown rice and quinoa, but limit (don\u2019t restrict) the bread intake and other refined starches,&#8221; advises O&#8217;Connor. Try a roasted vegetable medley with a serving of wild salmon, avocado, and brown rice. It&#8217;s still warm and filling, but\u00a0without the extra calories and unhealthy fat that comes with many hot meals, like cream-based soups and starchy pasta dishes.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Start with a base of spinach and cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts and cauliflower before adding carrots, sweet potato, broccoli, or radishes\u2014all of which can be roasted in olive oil.\u00a0Top it off with a freshly prepared salmon filet and some avocado. We don&#8217;t know about you, but that sounds <em>so<\/em> appetizing, <em>so<\/em> filling, and <em>so<\/em> satisfying to us.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Snacks <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_43-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><strong>Recommended Foods: <\/strong>Hard-boiled eggs, a green smoothie, plain yogurt with berries, Wasa crackers and cottage cheese, edamame, or crudit\u00e9s and hummus.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_45-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> O\u2019Connor says that whether you choose to have snacks or not during your detox is up to you, and you should listen to your body to help you decide if you need one or not. \u201cSome people do fine with just three meals, [while] others benefit from smaller meals and a snack or two,\u201d she explains. \u201cIf you start to feel a little peckish between your meals, then please have a snack. \u2018Starving\u2019 or restricting to save on calories may lead to binges later on.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_47-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Because they are a great source of satiating protein and don\u2019t contain sugar, hard-boiled or deviled eggs are one of O\u2019Connor\u2019s top choices for a healthy snack during a sugar detox. \u201cThe yolk contains plenty of nutrients, including bone-protective calcium and B vitamins, which are essential for brain health.\u201d She recommends enjoying them with a little Dijon mustard.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_49-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you\u2019re more in the mood for something cold and refreshing, grab your blender. \u201cTry a green smoothie made with a handful of spinach, 4 to 5 cubes of pineapple,\u00a0\u00bd a small avocado, and your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk,\u201d says O\u2019Connor. \u201cIt\u2019s got just enough natural sweetness in the mix for a tasty balance, [and] the healthy fats and fiber will keep your blood sugars level.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_51-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> O\u2019Connor says that plain yogurt with berries is also an excellent choice for a snack that will help keep blood sugar levels under control. The protein from the yogurt and antioxidant-rich berries offer a nutritious, satiating snack that can feel indulgent.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_53-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you\u2019re craving something more savory, O\u2019Connor suggests Wasa crisp crackers and cottage cheese. \u201cYou\u2019ll get plenty of whole-grain fiber from the crackers (3g per serving) and a good dose of protein in this low-sugar snack,\u201d she notes. Or, opt for \u00bd cup of edamame, which you can buy fresh or frozen (and then thaw or heat to your liking). According to O\u2019Connor, \u201cThese beans pack in fiber and protein for a convenient and satisfying snack-savvy option, [or for] more flavor, saut\u00e9 them lightly with minced garlic and add a touch of sea salt.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_55-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Lastly, O\u2019Connor recommends crudit\u00e9s (carrot, celery, zucchini sticks, radish, etc.) with \u00bc cup of hummus or \u00bd cup of plain low-fat Greek yogurt seasoned with lemon juice or zest and a pinch of sea salt or your favorite seasoning blend. \u201cI recommend Tajine, Zaatar, or \u2018Everything But the Bagel\u2019 for ultimate flavor,\u201d she adds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_57-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you have a strong craving for a piece of fresh fruit, it\u2019s possible to make that work, even during a sugar detox. \u201cIf you are worried about the sugar (all fruit contains natural sugars), just add a loose handful of nuts or seeds,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. \u201cThe healthy fat will keep those blood sugars stable and provide a little more satiation.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_59-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you do want to try and limit your snacking, especially mindless eating, O\u2019Connor has a few tips:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_61-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Drink plenty of water throughout the day.<\/li>\n<li>Space out your meals evenly during the day.<\/li>\n<li>Be mindful while you eat (sit down when you eat, don\u2019t eat while distracted), chew your food, and eat slowly. \u201cYou\u2019re more likely to recognize how much you are eating and better recall it at the end of the day,\u201d she says.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_63-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Hidden Sugars to Avoid <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_64-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> During a sugar detox, you want to avoid snacks that are high in sugars or highly processed snacks such as pretzels, cookies, fruit snacks, low-fiber crackers, cereal bars, and chips. But, there are less obvious foods that are better left on the shelf and out of your diet. For example, some \u201chealthy\u201d foods like packaged granola contain lots of added sugars, as well as partially hydrogenated oils. \u201cThere are hidden sugars in many of our packaged convenience foods. And often, many of these don\u2019t necessarily taste particularly sweet,\u201d explains O\u2019Connor. \u201cSome wheat bread, for instance, may contain barley malt and other &#8216;sugars,&#8217; such as honey to balance the flavor, but we don\u2019t consider this dessert.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_66-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Granola bars, and even \u201cprotein bars,\u201d also often masquerade as something healthier than they are. \u201cWhile some energy bars are formulated to be low in sugars and high in protein and\/or healthy fats, there are so many that contain an excess of added sugars, chemicals, and fillers we don\u2019t need. So, you\u2019ve got to read those labels,\u201d advises O\u2019Connor. \u201cRather than decipher through a laundry list of ingredients, make your own trail mix\u2014just be sure to limit the dried fruit (to one tablespoon) because it\u2019s concentrated in sugars.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_68-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Also, be aware of drinking too much alcohol. It&#8217;s less satisfying than food but still adds a lot of calories to our day with its hidden sugars. &#8220;Not only that,&#8221; says O&#8217;Connor, but &#8220;alcohol impairs our judgment, so we tend to eat &#8216;more freely&#8217; as opposed to sticking to moderation.&#8221;\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_70-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Eating Fruit on a Sugar Detox <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_71-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Aside from packaged and processed foods and alcohol, also avoid eating too much fruit. Jackson says\u00a0it can have\u00a0adverse effects on the body and encourage more sugar cravings. &#8220;There is a place for a little fruit in everyone&#8217;s diet and it isn&#8217;t something that should be completely cut out, but too much fruit can be very detrimental to your body,&#8221; she says. &#8220;It&#8217;s packed with sugar, especially in juice form, and is just setting your body up for an insulin crash. Be mindful when you pick up a &#8216;green juice&#8217; and check to see how much sugar is in the bottle. If you are going to eat fruit, aim for lower-sugar fruits like berries, which are also packed with other nutrients.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_73-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--tips beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-tips\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Byrdie Tip<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>A good fruit choice is a clementine or Mandarin orange because the segments help you eat more mindfully and savor each bite.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_74-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What are the side effects of a Sugar Detox? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_75-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;As with many diet and wellness trends, a sugar detox has both pros and cons,&#8221; says Adrian. &#8220;A true &#8216;sugar detox&#8217; typically involves going cold turkey\u2014at least to start. However, this can lead to unpleasant side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, and low blood sugar.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_77-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> She adds: &#8220;Though there are benefits to reducing the amount of added sugar in your diet, research shows that cutting out certain foods or food groups is typically not effective or sustainable in the long term. Instead of going cold turkey, I would advise starting slowly by gradually reducing the amount of added sugars in your diet. This will help prevent you from experiencing those unwanted symptoms and you\u2019ll likely be more successful in the long run. Aim to stay below the American Heart Association\u2019s recommendations of no more than six teaspoons of added sugar per day for women and nine teaspoons for men.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/how-to-cut-out-sugar-11907619&#8243;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/zobmnTyQvjwqpjrFLcJo30PHPio=\/1500&#215;0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/sugar-2-495097e9ac834d2b9068e81bf94661b0.jpg&#8221;] A Simple, Dietician-Approved Way to Cut Back on Sugar\u2014From Breakfast to Bedtime This will help curb cravings. By Kaitlyn McLintock Kaitlyn McLintock Kaitlyn McClintock contributed to Byrdie for over two years, most recently covering beauty news for the brand. Byrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines Published on February 17, 2026 08:53AM Medically reviewed by Maryann [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83,226],"class_list":["post-1784994","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1784994","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1784994"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1784994\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1784994"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1784994"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1784994"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}