TUESDAY TIP: KNOW YOUR SUGAR TRAP (cravings for the sweet stuff)

With the NEW YEARS EAT REAL FOOD CHALLENGE under way, those of you joining in may already be struggling with a bit of sugar withdrawal or cravings. Oh, the cravings.  Oh, the headaches!  In my experience, they all go away in a week or so. And don’t worry, it does get easier! But what to do in the mean time?

TIP: Know your sugar traps. So many things set me off – the chip aisle, food ads on TV, watching TV.  I have identified them all and have strategies to avoid them. It is a constant process, there are new baits set all the time but it is worth it and the feeling of control is magnificent!

Some thoughts on the sugar struggle. 

When those cravings hit, it may simply be a sign that you’re lacking nutrients. You’re taking something out of your diet,  so be sure to compensate by eating plenty of nourishing foods, including a variety of sweet and non-sweet vegetables, high-quality protein and healthy fats. The latter two are especially important for making us feel satiated!

Another thought, habit.  Perhaps, you've become accustom to eating something sweet simply because it's "that" time of the day. We need to re-train our brains to crave something else! Example, post meal sweets can be replaced with a warm tea or a natural sugar like a warm baked apple covered in cinnamon and nuts...mmm.

Don't be afraid to indulge in those natural sweet bombs - fruit- every now and again. Don't go overboard especially if you're looking to drop some fat.  

Drink water. Dehydration can make you feel crappy which can drive the urge for a quick pick-me-up so chug first to make sure you’re not getting the wrong message.

If all else fails, remind yourself why you started this challenge in the first place. EAT REAL FOOD and processed white sugar isn't one of them. "What's the harm?" you say.

Sugar can suppress your immune system.
Sugar can produce a significant rise in triglycerides. (Hello, high cholesterol!)
Sugar reduces the body’s ability to defend against bacterial infection.
Sugar interferes with the body’s absorption of calcium and magnesium.
Sugar can cause two blood proteins – albumin and lipoproteins – to function less effectively, which may reduce the body’s ability to handle fat and cholesterol.
Sugar is the number one enemy of the bowel movement.
Sugar can cause hormonal imbalance – some hormones become underactive and others become overactive.

Motivated yet?!

What’s your #1 tip for beating the sugar devil? How do you stop him calling your name. I want to know. Please share and tell us in the comments!

DISCLAIMER ALERT! Remember to eat what works for you!  I'm not a dietitian, so be smart and follow your gut;)  Also, "Damnit JIM", I'm not a doctor.  Listen to your body and be smart enough to know when enough is enough.

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