There has been a long standing controversy over sugar vs. sweeteners (like Sweet n Low, Splenda, or Equal). Many people feel that you are better off using natural sugar cane sugar because it has been processed less.
Recently a sweetener newer to the market has made a big splash called Agave or Agave nectar. It is a honey colored syrup, derived from succulents. In this sugar filled society, agave is tauted as being a healthier alternative. Calorie wise, (sugar vs. agave) they are about the same, but agave is about 25% sweeter, so , you don't have to use as much. It's glycemic index is significantly lower so it doesn't make your blood-sugar levels spike as much as sugar.
Agave can be found in the organic section of most super markets, but remember; agave, like sugar, is an 'empty calorie' so use it in moderation.
**I have found since beginning to follow a clean eating diet that my cravings/tolerance for salt and sugar has decreased ( though I'm the first to admit my weakness for sugar/chocolate!). If I eat a salty processed food like microwave popcorn, it taste grossly salty since I've massively decreased my salt intake through eating foods that are closer to their originally source, rather than processed. Keep working on your goals around the clean eating principles, and watch your health and your taste buds change for the positive!
10/19- Monday Workout :
Recumbent bike- 60 minutes
Strength train-Chest
Barbell bench press- 26lb bar
Push up off a bench
Flat bench dumbbell flye- 15lb
Standing cable chest extension- 1 tube tied around a pole
10/19- Monday Food Diary:
Breakfast-
1 scoop whey protein shake mix with water (90 cal.)
3 strawberries (15 cal)
A.M. Snack-
3/4 cup egg whites, 1 cup spinach(146 cal)
Lunch-
5 oz tuna steak ( 120 cal)
1/2 cup quieno (160 cal)
8 asparagus spears(26 cal.)
P.M. Snack-
2 apple( 135 cal)
1/2 cup non-fat cottage cheese, 1/4 cup non-fat yogurt (107.5 cal)
Dinner-
4 oz Orange Roughy (100 cal)
8 asparagus (26 cal)
Dessert-
6 egg whites-( 70 cal)
12 Organic roasted no salt ( 120 cal)
TOTAL CALORIES-1190
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