In today’s episode of the Fit is Freedom Podcast, we’re going to be talking about all things sugar. From the dangers to the great Sugar Freedom Experiment, we’re going to prepare to limit our intake and take back our health (both minds and bodies)! 

From “Sugar, Sugar” by The Archies to “Pour Some Sugar on Me” by Def Leppard, songs aren’t the only things that include a lot of sugar. As a matter of fact, there are so many “healthy” foods that have hidden sugars and lead so many of us to accidentally overindulge.

Now, I’m not ANTI-sugar! By no means should you swear off sugar for the rest of your life! Doing that wouldn’t be realistic. As with most things, moderation is key! 

And in the spirit of moderation, it’s important that you educate yourself on sugar. Here are three main things to be aware of when it comes to sugar…

There have been countless studies to prove that sugar is incredibly addictive. In one study with Connecticut College, rats were given Oreos. The researchers quickly learned that the oreos activated more neurons in the rats than cocaine. Isn’t that crazy? 

With the average American consuming 17 teaspoons of sugar per day, it’s safe to say that many of us may be more addicted to sugar than we may realize.

One main reason we may not realize we are as reliant on sugar as we are is because sugar is hidden in almost everything! 

One cup of Dannon low-fat yogurt? 8.5 teaspoons of sugar! 

Vitamin Water? 4.4 teaspoons of sugar! 

Dressings? Ketchup? Chewable Vitamins? Yep! Added sugars are in all of those and more! 

Of course, sugar being addictive is a negative effect! No one wants to be reliant on any substance. But, there is also a laundry list of other negative effects of consuming too much sugar which include…

Higher blood sugar

Inflammation

Fatty liver disease

Heart issues

Cancer

And more…

If you find yourself feeling the effects of having too much sugar in your daily meals or you’re looking to shift your health, you may want to give the Sugar Freedom Experiment a try.  Essentially, the Sugar Freedom Experiment is a way to get curious about your health, notice how your body and mind feel without sugar, and detox in a healthy and less-pressured way for 30 days.

Whether you’d like to join me or try it on your own, here are my four main tips for participating in the Sugar Freedom Experiment…

First, get curious. Look at what you have in your house. Are there large quantities of hidden added sugars in your favorite drinks, sauces, snacks, and more? Explore the grocery store. Start noticing where sugars are and where they aren’t. 

Instead of jumping on a hard detox, take your time setting yourself up for success. Create a “runway” to take off gently. Take out the items in your home that are riddled with sugar. Purchase some healthy alternatives that can lessen your cravings in a better way. Talk with your partner or spouse and make a plan for their level of contribution. If they still need their Oreos in the house, establish an agreed upon place that will limit your temptations. 

By reading labels and educating yourself and then creating a runway to successfully take off, you’re much more likely to commit to your experiment. 

It’s called an experiment for a reason. Take time throughout the journey to be curious about yourself. Take note of your most frequent triggers. Is it a particular time of day? Is it in a specific location? When you observe your triggers, you can make a plan of action and prevent it from happening. For some, it could be breathing exercises to work through the temptations.  For others it may be a healthier alternative like a small dark chocolate bar or a chocolate protein shake. 

Lastly, and most importantly, it is crucial to find support. Whether you choose to work with me and join our accountability group or simply have a supportive spouse, you’re going to be more successful if you have someone challenging, encouraging, and joining you in the process.