(Picture: Sweet Life)

If you’ve ever contemplated whether going sugar-free is worth it, then here’s a little inspiration for you.

Carolyn Hartz gave up the white stuff almost 30 years ago after years of being ‘addicted’ to sweets.

32 is the age we are 'most likely to experience burnout'

And today, the 70-year-old has a body most women half her age would kill for – which she puts it down to following a no-sugar diet.

‘I have been sugar-free for 28 years,’ she tells the Daily Mail.


‘It was difficult at first as I was a sugar addict but I believe it is one of the most important reasons I have been able to keep myself healthy and keep my body in shape.’

(Picture: Sweet Life)

So how has she managed to keep to it?



‘I make sure I eat protein with every meal, especially breakfast. It stops the cravings.’

She also says it’s crucial not to deprive yourself of the food and drink you love, but to be careful about ‘portion size’.

‘We know our metabolism slows down as we get older,’ she says.

‘It just means we have to take control and make healthier choices and work a little harder.

(Picture: Sweet Life)

‘I believe it is very important to be aware of the type of food you eat and the quantity of food you eat. Being mindful while you are eating is a huge factor.’

Instead of sugar, she uses a sweetener called Xylitol – an all-natural sugar substitute, which can be found in berries and some vegetables.

It’s worth bearing in mind, however, that Carolyn is the founder of a sweetener company so although being sugar-free has massive benefits, she obviously would put her age-defying looks down to using sweeteners over sugar.

(Picture: Sweet Life)

Apart from ditching the sugar and managing the portions, Carolyn says that sleep is the next most crucial element to staying fit and well.

She aims for at least eight hours a night and says that she has done for most of her life.

‘It is when our body heals and rejuvenates,’ she explains.

Living in Australia, Carolyn also swears by wearing suncream every day under her makeup and never sunbathes.

‘I am very aware of the damaging effects of the sun and I had this reminder when I had a cancer removed from my nose when I was only 30.’

(Picture: Sweet Life)

Her most crucial piece of advice for those of us in our 20s and 30s?

‘Be happy for everyone and never worry about your age. Train yourself to see the glass as half full. The day is partially sunny, not partially cloudy.’

MORE: Big boned cat to be rehomed after going on a diet

MORE: This vlogger isn’t standing for any more stupid summer diet ads

Advertisement Advertisement