Much less added sugar, extra taste: 12 summer time deal with recipes that do not embody added sugar

0
449

While it’s perfectly fine to enjoy sweets every now and then, they are often high in added sugar, which, if consumed in excess, can have negative health effects. Good alternatives are treats that contain natural sugar. (Elysia Cartlidge)

SALT LAKE CITY – Summer is in full swing and with it comes summery goodies.

Whether you are grilling in the garden or playing a ball game, there is no summer without ice cream, popsicles, smoothies, cakes and more. While it’s perfectly okay to enjoy sweets and treats every now and then, they are often high in added sugar, which, if consumed in excess, can have negative health effects.

The dietary guidelines for Americans recommend less than 10% of your daily calories from added sugar from the age of 2. It is recommended to completely avoid foods and beverages with added sugar for anyone under the age of 2.

In addition to the obvious sweets, desserts, and soda pop, added sugar can creep into our diet in a number of ways. From yogurt, granola bars, condiments, nut butters, breakfast cereals, and more, the amount of added sugar we consume can quickly add up.

(Note: “No added sugar” doesn’t mean “sugar-free.” Many recipes get their sweetness from fruits that contain natural sugars. Along with the fruit and the natural sugars are fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that you won’t find with many added sugars Natural sugars found in foods such as fruits and dairy products do not count towards your daily sugar intake.

If you’re looking for ways to cut down on added sugar while enjoying a nice treat this summer, try one of these 12 no added sugar recipes from registered dietitians.

Cherry, vanilla and yogurt bars.Cherry, vanilla and yogurt bars. (Photo: Kim Hoban)

Skip the store-bought yogurt bars and make your own right at home. With just four simple ingredients, you can make a delicious candy at home on a hot summer day. Another great thing about doing it yourself is that you can make the cherry pieces as big or small as you’d like.

2. Braised apples through KeyVion Miller registered nutritionist

These sweet apple compotes only need four ingredients and no added sugar. Cooking the apples brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit. Thanks to 100% apple juice and some spices, you can get exactly the right amount of sweetness and taste that you want, even without added sugar. Enjoy it as is, or put it on top of pancakes or waffles, or mix it in with your oatmeal or Greek yogurt for an afternoon snack.

Strawberries filled with chocolate mousse.Strawberries filled with chocolate mousse. (Photo: Lauren Harris-Pincus)

Get your chocolate in with these fun strawberries. This recipe actually requires a small amount of stevia to sweeten the vegan mousse, which helps keep the added sugar in check. The sweetness of the strawberries complements the mousse well to satisfy those with a sweet tooth.

Naturally sweetened with bananas, these oatmeal bars are not only suitable for breakfast, but also as a delicious snack. When you include the chocolate chips, some sugar is added in this otherwise healthy breakfast bar recipe. You can use chocolate chips with no added sugar, cocoa nibs made from dark chocolate, or leave out the chocolate altogether if you want.

If you haven’t grilled a pineapple yet, you’re missing out! Pineapple on its own is a very sweet fruit. Add some heat from the grill and you can caramelize some of the sweet juices to make them a perfect treat for your next barbecue evening.

In addition to being sugar-free, these muffins are also gluten-free. Sweetened with bananas and simple applesauce, they are a healthy snack that every family member can enjoy. You can go a step further and make this recipe your own by adding mixes of your choice like blueberries, cocoa nibs, or chopped nuts to the batter.

Try plantains with this fun breakfast, dessert, or afternoon snack. You can fill your plantains with toppings of your choice, such as: B. yogurt, dried fruits, desiccated coconut, cocoa nibs or chopped nuts.

Strawberry Lassi.Strawberry Lassi. (Photo: Shahzadi Devje)

With just four ingredients and a mixer, you can enjoy a creamy and refreshing drink with no added sugar in no time at all.

Red, white and blue popsicles.Red, white and blue popsicles. (Photo: Rebecca Clyde)

These fun fruit-filled popsicles would make a great patriotic treat for your July 4th celebration or any other day of summer. You can mix it up by swapping out raspberries or blackberries for a different flavor profile.

10. Pina Colada Smoothie through registered nutritionist Elysia Cartlidge

Pina Colada smoothie.Pina Colada smoothie. (Photo: Elysia Cartlidge)

If you can’t be in a tropical spot this summer, at least you can sip this no-sugar tropical smoothie. Frozen pineapple, banana, and coconut milk are all you need for this – unless, of course, you want an umbrella to really add a tropical vibes.

Instead of dipping strawberries in chocolate, try this strawberry recipe dipped in yogurt. Sprinkle them with pistachios for added flavor, crispness, and nutrients. I love the addition of lemon peel to top it off for a fresh and fun pairing of flavors.

Strawberry Cheesecake Nice Cream.Strawberry Cheesecake Nice Cream. (Photo: Mackenzie Burgess)

Enjoy the taste of cheesecake with no added sugar with this “nice” cream recipe. Frozen bananas form a perfect base with natural sweetness and can be mashed into just the right consistency for a simple but delicious frozen summer treat.

About the author: Brittany Poulson

Brittany Poulson is a Utah Registered Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator. She shares her passion for health, food and nutrition on her blog www.yourchoicenutrition.com, where she encourages you to live healthy lives in your own unique way. To read more of her articles, visit the Brittany KSL.com author page.

Editor’s Note: Everything in this article is provided for informational purposes only. The content is not intended, and should not be interpreted, as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always contact your doctor or other qualified health care provider with questions about any medical condition; All opinions, statements, services, offers or other information or content that are expressed or made available are those of the respective author (s) or sales partner and not of KSL. KSL does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of the opinions, information or statements in this article. KSL expressly disclaims all liability with regard to actions taken or not taken as a result of the content of this article.

×

photos

similar posts

More stories that might interest you