Sugar: How To Beat The Addiction

I believe sugar is a true toxin. I also believe it is a drug – it is fully addictive. It might be odd to think that foods can have such a powerful impact on us, but I have seen so many people addicted to sugar and have many health issues because of it.

With a high-sugar diet there are some obvious health ramifications, such as diabetes. But there are also less well-known traits about sugar. For example, did you know that one teaspoon of sugar can suppress your immune system for up to 16 hours? Yes, sugar is a major immune suppressant. Sugar also has a direct role in high cholesterol, perhaps even more than saturated fats. And of course, sugar feeds Candida in the gut, which is a major issue for many people and can contribute to everything from digestive issues, fatigue and brain fog to more severe neurological problems.

Because sugar is so addictive, it can be difficult to get off, but certainly not impossible. Some people are best going cold turkey, while some are best weaning off it (that depends mostly on one’s personality and what’s going to be the most likely to get to the end result of avoiding sugar).

I have found that once that initial detox phase is over, most people will not crave sugar on an ongoing basis. In fact, I know for myself, it’s been so long since I ate sugar that it just doesn’t appeal to me anymore. And this is a girl who LOVED her ice cream. But now, I see it, I know I won’t feel good after eating it, so I just skip it. It doesn’t take discipline or will power, I simply don’t want it anymore.

Dealing with Cravings

There are a few things that can help you to avoid sugar, especially in the early phases:-

(1) Supplements to help balance blood sugar.

I suggest either a capsule supplement called Cinnamon Plus Chromium, or a liquid called Aquachrome. Chromium, which is a key ingredient in both products, helps to reduce sugar cravings and balance blood sugar. Cinnamon is great for helping with insulin sensitivity.

(2) Use essential oils for metabolism balance

Cinnamon essential oil is a good one too, but there is a Metabolic Blend that I love that really helps to keep blood sugar in check. Email me if you’d like more information on that one. It’s great for enhancing energy too.

(3) Treat Candida

Doing something to reduce Candida overgrowth helps sugar cravings tremendously, as Candida itself wants to feed on sugar so it will trigger cravings. I like natural anti-fungals such as Candicid Forte and ADP (oil of oregano). More sensitive people could start with a product called Syntol, which breaks down the cell wall of Candida and can be an easier starting point if Candida is a significant issue. Grapefruit seed extract is also a good anti fungal, as is garlic. And of course, a good probiotic is key in regaining intestinal balance.

From a behavioral perspective, knowing that sugar cravings are likely to be part of getting off sugar, at least in the beginning, is good. It’s good to be prepared! Here are some options there:-

1. White knuckle it, knowing that “this too shall pass”. Distract yourself by going for a walk, taking a bath, calling a friend etc. Engaging in a healthy activity will be more likely to reinforce your desire for healthy nutrition choices too.
2. Try to find an equivalent that meets the same texture requirements. If you’re craving chocolate, get some that is sweetened with stevia. If ice cream is calling you get the frozen coconut milk dessert – it’s non-dairy, soy-free and sweetened with agave nectar.
3. Give in. Yes, you know it’s an option! If you are going to give in and treat yourself, I want you to promise me two things –

• You will find the very best quality you can find. Do not skimp. Avoid ‘diet’ versions and ‘sugar-free’ options.
• Skip the guilt-trip, just wake up tomorrow and get back on track.

There are many reasons to get off the sugar roller coaster, including more balanced intestinal flora, a healthier immune system and clearer cognitive function. Every single person I know who has got off sugar feels immensely different because of it – “clearer in all ways” is the theme of what I hear time and time again. I challenge you to wean yourself off sugar and reap the many benefits!!