It has been established beyond reasonable doubt excess added sugar in our daily diet is not ideal for our overall health. The American Heart Association recommends 9 teaspoons (36 grams) for males, 6 teaspoons (25 grams) for females, and 3 teaspoons (16 grams) for children. A 8-oz can of soda will render you with approximately 6 ½ teaspoons of sugar. You do the math if the size of sodas or sugary drinks increases consequently the amount of sugar is higher. And yes, sweet tea, fruit punches and coffee drinks are included in the same group as sodas. Therefore, if you are determined to decrease your daily sugar consumption, it is not impossible even if you claim you have a weakness for sweets, but it requires commitment and discipline.  There are small but key changes you can make, no sugar in your coffee, no more sweet tea, no more regular sodas, no more slushies, and keep cookies, candy, and cakes at a minimum. You may be thinking it is a sacrifice, yes but it will be worthy in the long run.

Another key change that can help you is going low on carbohydrates that do not offer any true benefit for you. Our bodies need carbohydrates, proteins, and fats along with vitamins, minerals and water.  However, when we have too much of a good thing is when we our health can take the wrong turn, and this is oftentimes irreversible like developing diabetes or high blood pressure. Therefore, before your doctor gives you that ultimatum, you can start making healthier, thoughtful choices today.
An example of making healthier choices is selecting quinoa over pasta or white rice, wheat bread instead of white bread, have a baked potato over French fries, no breadcrumbs in your salad. If you go for pizza night, choose a thin crust, plus steer clear of bacon, sausage, and pepperoni. Less fried foods when cooking or eating out. These are small meaningful changes anyone can make.
Extreme diets may not be suitable or healthy for everyone, there is not one size fits all. If you want to or need to make healthier food choices, please talk to a health professional. They can help you monitor your progress. Remember, consuming the right amount of nutrients is very essential for growth, health and sustainability of all our body functions.

Staying away from added sugar is doable and I highly recommend it. It does not mean giving up your favorite foods, it means choosing the healthier version of it. Of course, do not forget that physical activity goes hand in hand with making healthier food choices. Healthier eating habits will help you to long-term well-being. Be well, be healthy, be active.