Sugar

I've become a label reader these days.  I look for a few select words:

high fructose corn syrup
sugar

I have given up sugar once before (for about a month), and this time around I was going to allow myself a sweet treat each week, but I'm not going to give myself that splurge day for sugar. I'm not going back this time either.  I'm going long-term sugar free.

British Article on Sugar

Now, keep in mind, this is not the naturally occurring sugar that you find in foods. I'm fine with fruit. I have, however, given up all those sweets that I so craved before. I have started eating some sugar free candy and I've started buying some protein bars that don't contain sugar.

Opposing position on sugar free candy

If you read that link you'll see the negatives on sugar free candy. I'll say this: CANDY IS CANDY.  It is meant to be eaten very sparingly as a treat. I'm talking about a small pack of Russell Stover Sugar Free candy over a week and not a pack everyday.  However, as the following link shows, some people who are trying to lose weight may not be able to eat sugar free candy at all:

Sugar Free Candy

Me? It seems that my body is cool with the sugar alcohols (although if you eat TOO much you will know...they're a laxative).  I'm not going to push the envelope. I will use sugar free candy as an occasional treat rather than a normal daily snack. I'm thinking, maybe, once a week like I would have used a "real" sugar treat.

In other news: I shaved my beard down to stubble today so I can better see the returning jawline. Still needs some work, but I'm on my way.

Next blog post:  Protein Supplements. I said I wouldn't, but will I?