Giving up sugar is not an easy thing... especially if you have a sweet tooth! Yes, I know it is the holiday season, but when is it ever a good time to break a bad habit? (Never, really...) Sugar in moderation is not a horrible thing, but if you are going overboard, it could affect your health. That's why you may want to consider passing on the sugary sweets this holiday season to experience fabulous health benefits. The American Heart Association reports that by doing this, it could have profound effects on our short and long-term health as women. Plus, you will feel better when you're putting on your dress from Anthony's Ladies Apparel for your holiday party!

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends having no more than six teaspoons daily for women. That is not even a full glass of soda (and watch the sweet wines and sugary cocktails too!). If you are craving something sweet, go for the natural sugars - like in fruits and veggies - they haven't been stripped of their vitamins and minerals. That's according to Health Magazine.

If you do choose to cut back on sugar over the holidays, you’re sure to see some added benefits to your body.

Find Out Why You Should Avoid Sugar this Holiday Season

You'll Have a Healthier Heart

The American Heart Association reports that with a diet low in sugar, you'll decrease your risk of heart disease and also keep your weight in a healthier range.

You'll Have Youthful Skin

Less bags... less wrinkles... Need I say more? Studies report that too much sugar in the bloodstream creates a side effect of saggy skin. It also increases chances of wrinkles and aging.

You’ll Have Less Fat in Your Mid-Section

Visceral "deep" fat is a well-known risk factor for heart disease and diabetes. Studies have shown that the more sugar-sweetened beverages women consume, the higher their level of visceral fat is.

You’ll Lower Your Risk of Obesity

Because we are on that topic already, let's talk about how reducing your sugar intake can reduce weight gain as well... Why not give it a try?!

You’ll Feel Energetic

We all know what a sugar high feels like. You feel at the top of the world one minute, and the next, you're crashing. Why not skip that feeling this holiday season and opt for healthier "sweets" (like fruit)?

You’ll Cut Your Odds of Type 2 Diabetes

Researchers have found that the more sugar that is available in an area, the higher the diabetes rate. Other data also suggests that diets high in sugar cause the body to store visceral fat around the middle, and that can lead to insulin resistance.

So, ladies - Why not start a new trend? We can keep our weight at a healthy number, our skin glowing, reduce the chances of getting a disease - JUST by eliminating sugar?! Sounds like a good deal to me.

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By: Melissa Ferguson