Do you need a sugar detox?

Dear Fitness Coach,

I know this may sound ridiculously exaggerated but since I already have an addictive personality it may not be so far fetched. Is it possible that I am addicted to sugar? I crave it all the time, and the more I have, the more I want. I know its really unhealthy and even though I am very active I worry that I may end up with diabetes when I get older. Is there a sugar rehab that I can check into?

Candy Craver


Dear Craver,
Studies now conclusively show that sugar is an addictive substance. As a matter of fact, it affects the same cortex of the brain as crack cocaine releasing feel good hormones. These hormones is what keeps you coming back for more. You are right to be worried:besides diabetes, a diet high in sugar can lead to heart disease, certain types of cancer and obesity, especially as you get older.

The only way to break this addiction is to start weaning yourself off the sweet stuff. It can take a couple of weeks to get sugar totally out of your system, but once you do, something magical happens: those craving stop.

When you no longer desire sugar, then you can feel satisfied by just eating protein, complex carbs and healthy fats. A highly recommended eating plan is the Mediterranean, South Beach, or low-glycemic diet. These plans allow you restricted amounts of sugar that occur naturally in food. Any added sugar, whether its in so called healthy foods such as yogurt or whole wheat bread should be kept to a minimum. Rule of thumb is any food that has more than 10 grams of sugar per serving should be off limits.

While the occasional sweet treat won't make or break your weight loss or your health, many people have trouble with portion control or just saying no to sugar when it's available. If you feel out of control around sugar, then a sugar "detox" is a great way to reduce your cravings, eat better, and bring sugar back to where it belongs: as an occasional treat that you consciously choose to eat in a mindful manner, not a something that you eat constantly that controls you.