Blog: Break the Sugar Addiction

My dad turns 93 at the end of this month and I took him on his first wine tasting as part of his birthday present. He went with hesitation, but he ended up enjoying the education on how wines are made, learning about the grapes, the palette, etc.  He even bought a bottle to share with, "the guys" in his senior community.  He may never open it, but he loved the experience of it all.

The way I see it, you're never too old to try new things.  We must continue to challenge ourselves and expand our horizons.  Same goes for your summer plans.  People start to think about vacations and getting in to a bathing suit, but...are you dreading it?  If you are, I may be able to help.  Read on!

The term 'sugar addiction' has finally been making some headway in the media.

Ironically, the cause of sugar addiction truly stems from the mind. Researchers say that sugar and the taste of sweet is said to stimulate the brain by activating beta endorphin receptor sites, the same chemicals activated in the brain by the ingestion of heroin and morphine. Sugar is a manufactured, white substance just like the two mentioned above.
 
Why else would it be so hard to give up coffee (with sugar added), diet or regular sodas, chocolates, cake, sweet treats and so on. Everyone, I mean everyone, has a food or drink vice (be it big or small) that is contributing to their lack of vibrant health. It took me 4 years to get my dad fully off of coffee.  His was full of 3 heapings of sugar, but it finally happened. (replaced with green tea, no sugar) If he can do it after drinking coffee for 75 years, beating a sugar or caffeine addiction certainly IS possible. After all, none of us are perfect, but we can continue to strive for better health. 

Why this topic?  Because I have struggled too! 

I have to admit that my sugar of choice is dark chocolate.  It's much easier to be mindless and eat what we want UNTIL it is no longer serving you. I came to that place several years ago and although I do admittedly fall off of the "healthy eating" wagon now and then. When I do, my body pays the price and I jump back on. I've learned to eat what my body (not mind) needs at least 90% of the time. Sugar is also associated with many chronic conditions including decreased immunity, some chronic infections, diabetes, weight gain, autoimmune diseases, heart disease, diabetes, pain syndromes, irritable bowel syndrome, ADD, chronic fatigue, and candida.

What about the food industry's involvement? 

Let's reflect on advertising. Consumers are going about purchases without being mindful of what is fueling sugar addiction from marketing. (think pretty little candy packages) Add stress and the habitual use of food as a coping mechanism during busy days, skipped meals, emotional distress and so on. Before you know it, you have a full-blown addiction to sugar.  (and the Mars Bars companies are more than happy to have you!)

Society needs a change for the better. 

Our society and future generations need our help to educate them on how to break these habits and instill healthier choices. Children are being diagnosed with adult onset diabetes at alarming rates which increase every year. The time to change is now - as an individual, a family, a community, and a country if we just begin with ourselves.  So how do you get started? Read below. I'm ready to help you make a change for the better.

Do you crave sweets or sweet/salt combinations? How well do you sleep?  Are you low on energy most days? Are you having a hard time losing those extra pounds? If so, then a Sugar Challenge may be just what you need to reach your health goals!   

What is a 30 - day Kick the Sugar Challenge?   

A teleclass program designed to help you reduce or eliminate sugar from your diet. I will meet you wherever you are on your journey to better health. The program can be customized to fit your needs.

What do I get?   

Automatic membership in the Kick Sugar Group online - this is where you will receive all your information and weekly goals, as well as communicate and support other members of the group.

• An information packet containing everything you need to know about sugar, and the tools to help you avoid it.  
• Weekly teleclasses - you can participate on the calls or listen to a recording post-call.
• A private, 15-minute check in with me to ensure your success (optional)
• My support and that of all sugar challengers as you move toward a healthier, happier life.   

What it costs:

$90 for the first ten people to sign up, $110 after that.  Contact me to register or look for a registration link in my June newsletter!