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DISCLOSURE: This blog post is sponsored by Naked Nutrition. Products featured in this post were provided complimentary. All opinions are my own. Ever wondered if cookies can realistically be a part of a healthy and well-balanced diet? This blog post will discuss the role of sugar-sweetened foods in a healthy diet and offer strategies to help you scale back on sweets, including a review of Naked Nutrition’s new Protein Sugar Cookies.  If you are trying to pursue healthier eating habits, chances are you will evaluate your sweet tooth at some point along the way. And while it’s not necessary to totally “get rid” of your sweet tooth, aside from that being a rather unrealistic goal, there are some undeniable health benefits to reducing sweets in your diet. In fact, the National Institutes of Health shares that “several studies have found a direct link between excess sugar consumption and obesity and cardiovascular problems worldwide.” What is considered "excess" sugar consumption?The American Heart Association has a recommendation that can help you achieve better balance when it comes to sugar-sweetened foods and beverages in your diet.
 The average American adult eats about 68 grams of added sugars, according to 2017–2018 CDC data! And these sugars aren’t coming from fruits, veggies, and dairy products – which all contain some sugars in them naturally. These super sweet selections are typically coming from food and/or beverage choices where sugar has been added during processing or preparation to give the product a more appealing taste. (Think sugar-sweetened beverages like sweet tea and coffee shop lattes, and desserts like donuts and ice cream.) The good news is that you CAN take actionable steps to enjoy foods and beverages with added sugar in moderation! Here are a few ideas you can consider. 3 Simple Ways to Cut Back on Added Sugars
 I want to take a moment to spotlight this new sugar cookie alternative that hits the mark on two of these suggestions I just mentioned – Naked Nutrition’s Protein Sugar Cookie! This protein cookie is low in added sugar, and has 10 grams of grass-fed whey protein. (A similar-sized commercially-prepared sugar cookie would contain more like 15 grams of added sugar!)
I love the convenience of this option for busy days, as well as the portability of taking this (not so) sweet treat with me on-the-go. The Protein Sugar Cookie has a gooey, “under-baked” texture and goes great with a cup of coffee! Head on over to Naked Nutrition to check out all their premium ingredient products, including these protein cookies, which actually come in three yummy flavors – classic sugar cookie, chocolate chip, and oatmeal raisin.
Here’s to having your sweets and eating them too! xx Lindsey
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DISCLOSURE: There are affiliate links contained in this post, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.  I’m crying. 😭 (1) Because of the amount of onions I had to chopped in this HEALTHY YOGURT AND ONION DIP! And (2) because it tastes so dang good! dEATS: • 2.5 cups minced onions, browned • 2 garlic Crush Cubes • 1 tsp Dale’s Seasoning • 1.5 cups plain Greek yogurt Directions:
  I’m also LOVING these Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass containers where I can mix AND store everything in one ☝🏼 container, so less mess & cleanup! These Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass containers are also — 100% airtight and leakproof, oven safe to 450*, freezer-safe, dishwasher-safe, AND BPA-free. 🙌🏼 (Thanks to Influenster for letting me try these containers complimentary!)  Lets be honest… sometimes when you “healthify” recipes the end product is kinda meh, but not this one! This tastes 💯% like the real deal French Onion Dip you would buy at the store.
xx lindsey DISCLOSURE: This blog post is sponsored by Naked Nutrition. Products featured in this post were provided complimentary. All opinions are my own.  Protein powder can be a great pantry-staple along with your canned goods, dried grains, and the like. Why are protein powders a good option to stock up on? For the same reason you make many other food choices in your life – convenience! Now, selecting an ideal protein powder can cause your head to spin if you’re unsure of what to look out for, but Naked Nutrition products make it super easy. They’re products are made with minimal ingredients (most contain 3 ingredients or less!) so YOU are more in control of what you want when using a Naked Nutrition supplement. For example, their vegan Pea Protein Powder has just ONE ingredient – yellow pea protein. That’s it! No added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Just simple, straightforward ingredients that you can use to make a more well-balanced meal or snack. (Remember, protein is not only an essential nutrient, it’s also a nutrient that can help us feel full and satisfied throughout our day.) Don’t know what to do with protein powder? The Naked Nutrition team provided me with these two tasty recipes (that include some of my very favorite flavors – matcha and coffee!) that I think you’ll love too…  Matcha Green Power BallsRecipe by Ashley Sobel** Servings: ~18 balls Ingredients:
Directions:
 These vegetarian Matcha Green Power Balls are easy enough to make ahead of time to have during your busy week as a pre-workout snack or for when you want something slightly sweet.  Vanilla Latte SmoothieRecipe by Ashley Sobel**
Servings: 1 Ingredients:
Directions:
This vegan Vanilla Latte Smoothie comes together quick (especially if you already have all your ingredients measured out) and could even be enjoyed as an on-the-go breakfast! I hope you give these recipes a taste test and be sure to head on over to Naked Nutrition to check out all their premium ingredient products! xx Lindsey **About the Recipe Author: Ashley Sobel is a Registered Dietitian based in New York City who is passionate about nutrition, science, and the power of food. She helps her clients navigate the tricky world of nutrition to help them reach their goals. She specializes in eating disorders, disordered eating, and digestive health. |
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