Here's my interview with myself about my sugar-free diet. It's just an introduction, for my own records, if nothing else. Enjoy!
Why would you take sugar out of your diet?
For as long as I can remember, I've had a daily struggle with sinus congestion, chest congestion, and headaches. After a number of useless doctor appointments, ineffective medications, and even a painful nasal surgery (that may have made things worse), I decided to take matters into my own hands. I learned in a college Nutrition class that almost all ailments can either be cured or lessened in severity with diet alone. Thus begun my determination to cure my mild symptoms with my diet.
How do you think eliminating sugar will help the problem?
You are what you eat! I cannot stress that enough. Nearly everything you ingest becomes a part of the make-up of your body. It sounds trivial, but we seem to forget this concept when sitting in the McDonald's drive-thru with growling tummies. Keeping this in mind, I considered the substances in my diet that could be potentially harmful: processed food and fast food. These foods usually offer little nutritional value (fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals, etc.). If they do have nutritional value, they usually also include tremendous amounts of potentially harmful ingredients (hydrogenated oils, saturated fats, sugar, high fructose corn syrup, etc.). Eliminating sugar from my diet will help me avoid these types of foods and, hopefully, provide me with relief from my sinus congestion.
How do you plan on going about this new diet?
I decided to use a step-system (making a series of smaller goals to achieve a larger long-term goal). I'm starting by eliminating sugar from my diet. Or, so I thought. Turns out, EVERYTHING has sugar in it. Even at work, I had to start packing my lunch because few quick-service restaurants close by that offered healthy/sugar-free options. Alas, I have decided to begin by eliminating white sugar only and choosing more whole-grain products (whole-grain bagels from Panera Bread are my favorite now). Fructose and Lactose are acceptable forms of sugar for me. Visit
ChooseMyPlate.gov for information about healthy eating and customizing a diet for your needs.
Isn't it difficult to follow a sugar-free diet? Have you ever "relapsed?"
I found it particularly difficult to follow the diet over the holidays, while on vacation, and when I'm with friends who aren't following the same diet. Even though I've had a few slip-ups, I feel healthier than ever. By significantly reducing my sugar intake, I have unintentionally tricked myself into drinking more water and eating a variety of vegetables, fruit, and meats. The longer I go without consuming processed sugar, the less I desire to consume it because I don't want to sacrifice how healthy I feel for a few minutes of indulgence.
Here's a great basic guacamole recipe for a delicious sugar-free snack.
How do you cope with cravings?
If you have sugar/chocolate cravings, you probably aren't getting enough to eat during the day and your body has used up all the carbohydrates you gave it for breakfast. Because you aren't eating enough, your body craves the most basic forms of carbohydrates (aka, sugar) for energy. This is the reason why many people have night-time sugar cravings. If you are able to maintain a variety of carbs throughout the day, you can significantly reduce your cravings. Things like vegetables, whole grain breads and noodles, and fruits will provide variety. I notice myself getting hungry about every two or three hours, but if I have a healthy snack or meal at that time, I eliminate the desire to eat everything in sight at the end of the day. Check out
WebMD's tips for controlling sugar cravings.
Lots of love and healthy choices,
Katie
P.S. I forgot to mention: I've also lost weight (which wasn't the intention, but it doesn't hurt). In just a couple weeks, friends have noticed a difference and have been complimenting my appearance. Compliments never hurt! :)
