If you’ve ever wondered how you can mindfully reduce your sugar intake, this episode is right up your alley! We know that sugar can trigger skin rash flares, gut problems, and increase inflammation in the body (aside from contributing to blood sugar and hormone issues). While there are a lot of people that would swear to you that sugar is the devil and you should avoid it at all costs, I like to take a more pragmatic approach. We all live in the real world and have to take steps that are practical and sustainable over idealistic (that can lead some on the path to disordered eating). Sugar is all around us… and rather than fearing it, let’s talk about some better options! Options that could reduce sugar intake within your home that won’t have you (or family members) dumping treats in the trash because they taste like artificial chemicals. Nor leave you afraid to eat (which is an unfortunate common problem in our community). Here’s my advice on healthy sweetener alternatives that I often share with my nutrition clients! In this episode: Why I encourage my nutrition clients to avoid trying to go entirely sugar-free My top 4 recommended low or no-calorie alternative sweeteners Pros + cons of specific alternative sweeteners (some can trigger rashes!) Tips for finding lower sugar recipes for treats (so you can enjoy the holidays) Favorite companies that make or use alternative sweeteners Quotes: Food is one of life’s great pleasures and is meant to be enjoyed! Doing so mindfully can make all the difference between throwing in the towel versus staying on track. Certain alternative sweeteners can potentially trigger rashes in some (that look like eczema) or unpleasant gut symptoms like gas or bloating.