Did you know sugar is the new smoking? Or that the molecular structure of sugar is nearly identical to cocaine's? That's what makes it so addictive - and it's literally everywhere! Over 80% of items in the supermarket contain added sugar - even foods you wouldn't expect, like crackers, salad dressing, and soup! In the 80's, we decided fat was the enemy. We removed the fat from our foods but replaced it with sugar. The result? We got fatter! And sicker. That's because sugar causes inflammation in the body, and inflammation is the root cause of many diseases, from cardiovascular disease to cancer. So how can we avoid the white stuff but still satisfy our sweet tooth? Swerve Sweeteners offer a natural solution! Andress is the CEO and founder of Swerve Sweetener, a New Orleans-based company focused on helping educate people about blood sugar stabilization. With their sweeteners, you can bake to your heart's content WITHOUT compromising on health. For Andress, health starts with blood sugar balance, because when you control blood sugar, you have better energy, better weight management, and better mood. She wanted to share a tool we can use to give up the white stuff without giving up pleasure. What about coconut sugar, or maple syrup? Yes, they're certainly better than refined white sugar…. But they're still sugar, and they still impact your blood sugar - which means they're not suitable for diabetics. Plus, they still contain plenty of calories. The answer? Sugar alcohols, but not just any sugar alcohol. Swerve uses a blend of the sugar alcohol erythritol and prebiotic oligosaccharides. The reason erythritol is amazing is that the body metabolizes it in a completely different way to other sugar alcohols like xylitol (which can cause some digestive issues). What's more, it's vegan, there's nothing artificial, no GMO, and no MSG. AND it's diabetes-friendly! So basically, you can use Swerve in your baking and cooking, guilt-free. Check out Swerve's website for some absolutely gorgeous sweet recipes (there are over 300!). Watch out for their new products: brown sugar, and vegan keto grain-free gluten-free bake mixes for when you need a healthy treat in a hurry. Available in your grocery store or online. Being hailed as "Sex and the City for Food," The Food Heals Podcast brings together experts in the field of nutrition, health and healing to teach you the best-kept natural secrets to being a hotter, healthier, happier YOU! The Food Heals Podcast is hosted by Allison Melody and Suzy Hardy – two self-proclaimed natural chicks who will rock your world and change your beliefs about health! This sexy, savvy duo provides eco-friendly advice on a variety of issues including the healing power of nutrition, living authentically, turning your passion into your career, choosing the best natural health and beauty products, the benefits of a plant-based diet and so much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices