6 Ways to Beat Your Sugar Habit

Americans consume 23 teaspoons of added sugar a day. Roll back your

intake with these tips from Mike Roussell, Ph.D., author of The 6 Pillars of Nutrition

First replace it with diet soda to reduce calories while still having your sweetness fix. Then, after a week, make the switch to seltzer with a slice of citrus.

SWEETEN YOGURT NATURALLY

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Fruit-on-the-bottom yogurts can contain almost 30 grams of sugar, much of it added. Opt for plain and mix in blueberries or sprinkle on cinnamon.

SNACK ON WHOLE FOODS AND GRAINS

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Instead of energy bars, candy, and cookies, eat nuts, vegetables, and fiber-rich fruits (like apples, pears, and berries) or whole grains, like popcorn.

DILUTE YOUR FRUIT JUICE

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Fruit drinks account for about 10 percent of the added sugar in our diets. Mix your juice with an equal amount of H2O and you'll halve the calories.

SWAP OUT YOUR CEREAL

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Shelve the Frosted Flakes for steel-cut oats. Stir in a half scoop of vanilla protein powder for a sweetness kick. You'll add about 10 grams of protein.

PICK YOUR OWN DESSERT

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Grilled fruit makes a great dessert, providing a sweetness hit with a healthy dose of fiber. Our top picks: peaches, grapefruit, and watermelon.