‘Everything in moderation, including moderation.’. This well-known quote by Oscar Wilde is so appropriate when it comes to sugar awareness.

Too much of it, we know, may increase the risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. As long as you are knowledgeable about sugar facts, there’s no need to cut sugar out completely. Fruit, for example, contains sugar but also offers amazing nutrients such as fibre, vitamins and minerals. Mindful eating allows us to make smarter sugar choices and to be aware of ‘hidden sugars’.

Our Executive Head Chef has a number of clever sugar swaps and healthy sweet alternatives that he recommends to curb sugar cravings:

• Nut butter is an excellent straight switch for sugar. Spread on slices of apple, pear or a rice cracker and add a sprinkling of pumpkin seeds.
• Greek yoghurt with honey, or with a handful of berries (or both).
• Healthy apple chips, baked with a sprinkling of cinnamon are out of this world.
• Banana ice cream, which is easy to whizz up with a little preparation: Peel bananas, slice into chunks, freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, blend to make a delicious and healthy treat!
• Dates, whether they are whole, chopped or pureed they are a great natural sweetener
• Raw energy bites. We serve these during morning and afternoon refreshment breaks for conferences and meetings, which offers a nutritious alternative to cookies.
• Freeze some grapes, they taste similar to a handful of mini sorbets!
• Smoothies such as our Berry Detox Smoothie and Kiwi and Apple Smoothie are some of our favourites. Try it in a bowl with some chia seeds, granola and berries scattered on top.

If you know of any other creative ways to curb sweet cravings, tweet us and let us know @churchhouseconf

For more information please do get in touch via our contact form or give us a call on 020 7390 1590 to discuss your event.