Fifty-seven pounds! That's how much added sugar the average American consumes every year, way over the recommended amount of six to nine teaspoons per day.

So, it's not surprising that the nation's locked in an ongoing battle with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease - all linked to excessive consumption of sugar.

Part of the problem is that sugar just tastes great. The other part is that we aren't aware of how much sugar there really is in everyday foods.

Are you ready to win your independence from sugar and enjoy a healthier life? Here's how to get started.

1. Know Your Enemy

Let's say you wanted to give up eating apples. Now, unless you have a previously unheard-of addiction, you'd simply stop buying them or find another fruit to eat, right?

So, why can't we do that with sugar?

The truth is that sugar has the same effect on the brain as alcohol (which is also a type of sugar). It causes our brains to release dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter.

That's why we feel cheated when we give up sugar. When you understand that your sugar cravings are all in your mind and far from life-threatening it's easier to cut it out of your life.

2. Safety in Numbers

Nutrition labels are your first defense against eating unknown quantities of sugar. Even innocuous-seeming processed foods contain more sugar than you think.

Read the nutrition label on everything you buy and try to avoid foods that list sugar in the top three ingredients.

Remember that every 4 grams of sugar equals one teaspoon of sugar and any fancy-sounding word that ends in 'ose' is just another name for sugar i.e. lactose.

3. Create a Diversion

You're likely to experience some withdrawal symptoms when you first start avoiding sugar. These include headaches and lack of energy.

Push through by distracting yourself with exercise, phoning a friend, or indulging in a pampering beauty treatment. These activities also release the dopamine you're really craving.

In this way can retrain your brain to seek its fix in positive activities instead. This is a real win if you've given up sugar to enjoy the benefits of losing weight.

4. Plan Your Attack

Shopping wisely is one way to ensure better eating habits. Check your labels and stock up on healthy foods instead.

Put these items on your list to help you beat sugar cravings:

• Low-fat proteins
• Mineral water - rather add your own fruit flavorings
• Fresh, whole foods
• Greens

Healthy snack options include smoothies, nuts, bananas, berries, and coconut. Drinking or eating something sour like lemon or water with a dash of lime juice, will distract your mind while keeping your tastebuds occupied.

Embrace Your Independence From Sugar

Once you've managed to kick the habit, you'll start to love your new-found freedom from the clutches of sugar.

You'll have more energy and experience improved health. Celebrate your independence with constructive activities and embracing healthier diet options.

Browse our blog for more ideas on making the most of your health and your life.