When you’re looking to take a step in a healthier direction, a natural assumption is that a sugar-free alternative will take you in that direction.

But is that actually the case?

The truth is: It depends.

See, not all sugar alternatives are created equal.

Some still spike blood sugar. Some can cause you digestive upset. Some are just as unhealthy as sugar, but in a different way than sugar.

Even if you choose a sugar alternative that’s healthy and doesn’t spike insulin, it may still trigger cravings.

For many people, just the taste of something sweet is enough to send them on a spiral. Instead of “saving” you from a craving, it triggers you to crave more.

Here are some tips on sugar-free alternatives, and whether they’re worth the effort.

At this time, the only two alternatives to sugar I approve of for Code Red Rebels are stevia and monk fruit.

You can see the exact ones I endorse at www.CodeRedLifestyle.com/shop.

Now, about whether to actually make sugar-free versions of your favorite “treats,” it’s a slippery slope.

If you’re trying to get your kids off sugar – ALWAYS an excellent idea – then it’s a great step for them.

But for you?

If you’re a sugar addict and love eating all those sweets, it can be a slippery slope. You devote all this time to re-creating sweet treats instead of drinking your water and getting your sleep, you aren’t losing weight, you get frustrated and give up.

There’s a HUGE difference between having an occasional small bowl of blueberries and heavy whipping cream sprinkled with a little monk fruit and devoting hours a day to sugar-free versions of cheesecakes, cookies, cakes, pies, ice cream, and so on.

What I want you to do here is be honest with yourself.

If even sugar-free is a trigger to eat more and more sweets and derails you, don’t go there.

If you are not someone who gets triggered by an occasional sugar-free item, that’s useful information, too.

Be honest with yourself, and make the decision that’s gonna help you reach your goals.