Costco Sugar Swaps: Healthier Choices You’ll Love
We’ve done the research and put together a list of the best Costco sugar swaps to help you satisfy your sweet tooth without the sugar overload.
Sweet Bevvies
Those sugary sodas and even some fruit juices can sneak a lot of sugar into your diet. For example, a 12-ounce can of cola can pack in a shocking 39 grams of added sugar, and an 8-ounce serving of bottled fruit punch might have 28 grams.
Swap: Instead of grabbing a case of cola, try OLIPOP—this flavored fizzy drink contains healthy prebiotics and only 2 grams of sugar per can. Another great option is sparkling water from brands like Kirkland, Spindrift, and La Croix, which have zero sugar and still offer that refreshing fizz.
Our Inner Child Loves This One
Fruit-filled cereal bars are super convenient, but they can also be high in sugar. For instance, a blueberry cereal bar might contain 11 grams of added sugar, and gummy-style fruit snacks—despite their name—are no better, with 11 grams of sugar per serving and no actual whole fruit.
Swap: Reach for That’s It Mini Fruit Bars. These wholesome snacks satisfy your sweet cravings with natural fruit sugars, no added sugar, and plenty of fiber from whole fruits.
Cereal for Dinner? Yes.
Sweetened cereals are a breakfast (or dinner) staple, but they’re often loaded with sugar. A ¾ cup serving of sugar-coated cornflakes can contain 12 grams of sugar, and even cereals with bran flakes and raisins can have up to 9 grams of added sugar.
Swap: A healthier choice is NuTrail Keto Nut Granola Blueberry Cinnamon. It has no added sugar and offers 3 grams of fiber per serving—perfect for crunchy, satisfying bowls.
Gatorade Swap for a Hot Day
Sports drinks might seem like a healthier alternative to soda, but they can still be high in sugar. Some sports drinks contain 24 grams of sugar in a 16-ounce bottle.
Swap: Stay hydrated and cut back on sugar with Liquid IV or Liquid IV Sugar-Free. This simple swap is better for your health—and your waistline.
Get That Protein In!
Protein bars are a quick and easy way to get an energy boost, but some can have up to 16 grams of sugar to improve the taste.
Swap: A better option is RXBARs, which contain no added sugars and are packed with protein. Costco offers them at great prices in multi-packs.
Almond Milk > Regular Milk
Almond milk is a popular dairy alternative, but the sweetened versions can contain up to 15 grams of sugar in an 8-ounce serving.
Swap: Opt for Kirkland Signature Unsweetened Almond Milk to enjoy all the benefits of almond milk without the added sugar.
Balance Your Diet with Simple Swaps for a Healthier Life
Sticking to the recommended daily sugar intake has its perks. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to empty calories, weight gain, and an increased risk of health issues like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
By swapping out high-sugar foods for healthier options, you can stay within the recommended limits, maintain a healthy weight, and improve your overall health. So, the next time you’re at Costco, consider these swaps to make your cart—and your life—a little healthier.