Sneaky Sugars in "Healthy" Meals Draining Your Energy

Apr 25, 2025
 

If I asked you to name the biggest sources of sugar in your daily meals, what would you say? 

Chances are, your mind goes straight to the obvious stuff—soda, desserts, maybe your morning mocha. But here’s the kicker: sugar hides in plain sight, even in foods that are marketed as healthy

 Common Hidden Sugar Bombs: 

  • Flavored yogurt (even “low-fat” or “Greek” versions) 
  • Granola and protein bars 
  • Instant oatmeal packets 
  • “Whole grain” or high-fiber cereals 
  • Store-bought pasta sauce 
  • Salad dressings (especially fat-free or light) 
  • Ketchup, BBQ sauce, teriyaki, relish, honey mustard 
  • Flavored nut butters 
  • Bottled smoothies and green juices 
  • Bread, buns, crackers, and rice cakes 
  • Non-dairy milk (like oat or almond with added sweeteners) 
  • Pre-made soups, marinades, and frozen “healthy” meals 

Some of these might not even taste sweet—but don’t let that fool you. Food manufacturers are pros at sneaking in sugar under names like “evaporated cane juice,” “malt syrup,” or “glucose solids.” Sugar hides behind dozens of aliases. 

Why It Matters—Now and Later 

Most people think sugar is just a long-term health issue. And yes, it absolutely is—it increases your risk for insulin resistanceprediabetestype 2 diabetes, and heart disease

But it’s not just about your future health. Sugar impacts how you feel right now

The Sugar Rollercoaster: Why You’re Always Tired 

When you eat sugar (or refined carbs), your blood sugar spikes—followed by a crash. This rollercoaster affects everything from your mood to your mental focus. 

Here’s what a crash can look like: 

  • Sudden exhaustion or sluggishness 
  • Brain fog 
  • Crankiness or mood dips 
  • Cravings for more sugar, carbs, or caffeine 
  • Feeling hungry again right after eating 

Sound familiar? If you're feeling low-energy, burnt out, or constantly reaching for snacks or coffee, unbalanced blood sugar might be the culprit. 

Balance Is Everything 

When your blood sugar is steady, you feel it: 

  • Consistent energy 
  • Fewer cravings 
  • Improved focus 
  • Better digestion 
  • Balanced mood 
  • Deeper, more restful sleep 

That’s why one of the first things I work on with my private coaching clients is helping them rebalance their blood sugar and break the cycle of highs and crashes—for good. Side note, if you're interested, I made an Instagram reel this week on what I eat in a day to balance hormones and lower inflammation. You can check it out HERE :)

Ready to Take the First Step? 

If you’re tired of feeling tired and ready to finally take control of your energy, weight, and wellness—I’d love to support you. 

Email me at [email protected] to learn how to apply for 1:1 coaching. I’ll be with you every step of the way, guiding you toward your ultimate weight loss and wellness goals with a personalized plan that actually works for your lifestyle

Not ready for full coaching yet? No worries—start with my ebook:
 

The Enso Kitchen is the perfect jumpstart. It’s designed for busy people who want to take charge of their health without overcomplicating it. 

Inside, you’ll get the exact strategies I teach my clients—plus 42 simple, delicious, and nourishing recipes to help you: 

  • Lose weight sustainably 
  • Lower inflammation 
  • Boost energy naturally 

It's more than a recipe book—it’s your toolkit to make healthy eating easy, empowering, and actually enjoyable. Click HERE to order your copy today. 

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"Let yourself be silently drawn by the strange pull of what you really love. It will not lead you astray."

~Rumi

 

I love this quote and wanted to share it with you today. Rumi’s words remind us to listen to the quiet pull of our hearts. When it comes to our health and wellness, it’s easy to get caught up in the noise of daily life, but true transformation comes from within. Trusting what you love—whether it’s nourishing your body with wholesome food, carving out time for self-care, or moving your body in ways that feel good—will lead you to the life you deserve. As you continue on your wellness journey, let that pull guide you toward the choices that bring you energy, joy, and peace. 

❤️Solmaz

 

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