Are You Controlled by Sugar?
By: Danielle
If you're one of many people who feel controlled by sugar, who thinks about those cookies in the cupboard or the ice cream parlour down the street, you've got to read this. Because I know first-hand that the sugar cycle will continue until we do something about it.
Here's why:
Foods with a high glycemic index (and high glycemic load) - like sugars and refined starches - are quickly absorbed and contribute to a lag in energy.
In general:
- High-carbohydrate foods (pastas, rice, crackers, donuts, bread) have the highest glycemic indexes.
- High-fiber vegetables, protein, and healthy oils have the lowest glycemic indexes. (Sound familiar? Fat + Fibre + Protein!)
Often snacks are synonymous with processed sweet 'treats'. We reach for them for a pick-me-up at 3pm or after dinner for comfort. We get that immediate boost but feel terrible and tired afterwards. Then more treats are needed!
So who's ready to go on a sugar detox with me? Cutting it out cold turkey is a good way to show your body and your brain what you are capable of. And that sugar doesn't have to control you if you don't want it to.
What do we want to avoid?
Well, sugar is in the obvious places (cookies, ice cream, and candy), but it's also hidden in the sneaky foods below. So even if we try to avoid all the desserts and sweets, chances are we are still getting some sugar into our mouths. The easiest thing to do is eat nothing from a package and everything from the earth (no sugar there!).
Here are the foods to steer clear of:
- Pasta sauces
- Ketchup
- Salsas
- Juice (even green juices!)
- BBQ sauce
- Yogurts
- Dried fruits
- Granolas
- Salad dressings
- Marinades
- Milk (especially vanilla flavoured)
- Cereals
- Packaged oatmeal
- Protein powders (especially flavoured ones)
- And virtually anything in a package
If you don't think you can do a full week, start with a full day of going sugar-free. Can't do a day, start with a few hours.
You have got to start somewhere and once you do you will see you can do it. You will feel free from sugar and those debilitating and distracting cravings. And the perk: your mind will be clearer and you may even feel a little leaner. Because sugar is stored as fat in the body.
I'll be wishing you luck from the other side of your computer. But I know you can do it and you will love the non-sugar rush.