Are You Hooked On Sugar?

For many of us, the answer to this questions is YES!

I have been guilty too. I love a good sweet taste sensation, but I should not indulge everyday.

Refined sugar (white sugar, corn syrup, etc) is an enemy that seduces us with its sweetness, but it is a wolf in sheep's clothing. Sugar can sometimes act as our counselor and friend, but it deceives us. Let me give you some reasons why you should change your sugar habits:

1. According to health professionals, sugar suppresses the immune system for up to 3 to 4 hours. This means, if you come in contact with a virus or bacteria, you may be much more susceptible to becoming sick.
2. Refined sugar can alter your mood. You might feel a sugar lift, but it will soon drop you off the cliff.
3. Refined sugar can be linked to weight gain, inflammation, diabetes and a host of other illnesses.
4. Refined sugar addiction is real!

What can we do?

Make sure to counteract sugar cravings by eating nutritionally balanced meals. Substitute refined sugar with other sweeteners like Stevie, agave, raw honey, barley, rice syrup, pure maple syrup. Make it a habit to sparingly use sweeteners. You should only try these different sweeteners if you do not have a monitored medical condition. Otherwise, seek the advise of your doctor. Some of these sweeteners may satisfy your pallet. I like Stevie in my morning smoothies, honey or maple syrup in my oatmeal. I use raw organic Turbinado for baking. Turbinado sugar maintains some it's mineral content so it dissolves slower than white sugar. I enjoy high quality sweets for special occasions and holidays.  I also enjoy ice cream substitutes that do not contain white sugar. Coconut milk products made with agave taste rich and satisfies ice cream cravings. Go to the health food store frozen section and find a delicious product that works for you. Remember to read the labels and avoid products with white sugar and corn syrup.
Please STOP the use of artificial sweeteners. If you have any hesitation, do your own research regarding the findings on how these chemicals negatively affect our bodies. They do not help you to lose weight. Don't fall for that! If they were suggested by your physician, please discuss the possibilities of substituting them with some of the sweeteners listed above.

There are some natural supplements that help to curb sugar cravings. Chromium, Magnesium and an herb called Gymnema Extract, have been known to limit sugar cravings. I have found that when I have a good nutrient intact and make sure I am properly eliminating every day, my cravings are more infrequent. Make sure you check with your health professional regarding the aforementioned minerals and herb.

Please think about the consequences of our over indulgence of refined sugar. We have options, so let's use them. Let me know your thoughts.