The Santé editorial team joined the National Sugar Challenge: a full week avoiding added sugars in food and drinks. Here's how it went for us.
We reflect on the experience.
Editor-in-chief Annalot (44): “It was a valuable reminder of how much sugar we consume unnoticed. I'm glad my intake is reasonably controlled right now—it can improve, but it's not excessive. Sugar sparks cravings: once I have a cookie or chocolate, stopping is tough. This was a reality check: keep sweets out of the house!”
Editor Maike (27): “It's confronting how sugar hides in most ready-made foods. Now I cook from scratch, skipping jarred sauces, pre-made soups, and meal kits. Yet pesto, yogurt, and stock cubes still sneak it in. The week went well, but long-term? I cherish tea biscuits and terrace Desperados too much. Total elimination isn't for me, but cutting back is eye-opening.”
Read also: Reducing sugar: 7 questions and answers
Photo: Getty Images
