Some experts equate sugar with alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and drugs. It is addictive and the most insidious because it is cheap, available and accepted as a treat or reward. Some people’s bodies may be so used to getting their sugar “fix” that there have been physical and mental changes made that create a need for sugar. They need sugar to maintain a “normal” body and behaviour.
There are many reasons why people may turn to sugar. Some say there is a genetic lack of serotonin (feel good, sleep-inducing neurotransmitter). Others say that there may be some kind of brain cell damage that prevents the brain from giving feedback, therefore not acknowledging the satisfaction of the “treat” as it turns into a “binge”. This means that while a “normal” person can have one piece of chocolate and be satisfied, an addicted person is only triggered to eat more chocolate when that first piece is eaten. Another explanation some doctors and researchers give is that depression triggers addiction. Whatever the cause may be, there is hope. It will be hard to deal with at first but with a few helpful tips, you can have your sugar binging days behind you.
Tip #1 – Vitamin C – This vitamin is the most potent anti-oxidant out there and it will help your cells return to excellent health by cleansing and oxygenating the tissues. It will also keep your bowels moving which will help flush your system.
Tip #2 – Glutamine – This amino acid is useful in detoxifying your body and will help to stimulate your body’s natural opiates (endorphins, etc) to help you get through the cravings.
Tip #3 – Essential Fatty Acids – These good fats will carry out the bad fats, which are normally stored in the fat cells, to be carried to your liver and then flushed out of the body via your kidneys and sweat glands. You can get these fatty acids in foods such as flax, nuts, fatty fish and canola oil.
Tip #4 – Sweat – Exercise, saunas, steam rooms, etc. Since the toxins are being released via your sweat glands, do what you can to help that process along. I recommend exercise because then you’re getting a good heart workout as well as detoxifying at the same time.
Tip #5 – Sleep – Everyone knows that you make some poor decisions when you’re tired. Figure out what your ideal amount of sleep is and get it every night.
This will not be easy. Recruit the help and support of your friends and family. Some sugar is not a bad thing. Too much sugar can cause many problems that you do not want to promote in your body. Moderation is key. You may experience some negative symptoms for a week or so but after that you’ll start to feel better. Drink lots of water and sweat it out! You can do this! Start enjoying the natural sweetness of fruits and vegetables instead of the refined sugars in treats.
Keep Well…Kristy
