What about sugar? Is it possible to include it while eating clean? Yes, as long as you eat the correct type of sugar. One of the basic principles of eating clean is eliminating all processed foods. White sugar and corn syrup are both heavily processed and should really not be part of your diet. In addition, there is a bit of controversy surrounding sugar substitutes like stevia and agave nectar, as both of these are also heavily processed.
The good news is that there are many substitutes you are allowed to consume (in small quantities). Here is a list of acceptable substitutions for sugar:
- Sucanat sweetener
- Turbinado sugar
- Maple sugar
- Coconut palm sugar
- Raw honey
Eliminating sugar is so tough in the beginning! During the first few weeks of clean eating your body will be detoxing and you may experience not so pleasant side effects like headaches and mood swings. It sucks. I remember when I first started I felt like crap for at least 10 days. But now I find that if I eat sugar I REALLY feel gross. Just hang in there for a few weeks and I promise you you will feel so much better in the long run.