I know, I’ve been there. It’s like an energy and emotional roller coaster. I feel sluggish, low and hungry…grab chocolate, grab a cookie, grab a bagel. Ahhh, that feels better. BUT, it happens again in about two hours! How did I jump off this roller coaster?

I cut out sugar. I cut out bread, baked goods. Was it hard? Absolutely! Was it worth it? Yes!

I don’t have red rashes on my cheeks that look like I was in the sun. I don’t have inflamed, itchy fingers and toes. My days are super constant with energy like being on a scenic country road rather than that gut-wrenching amusement park ride.

Here’s what helps:

Eat breakfast that has protein and fiber. Examples: eggs, oatmeal with nuts or seeds, and berries for sweetness, whole grain Ezekiel bread with nutbutter. plain yogurt, homemade protein smoothie. Protein and fiber help to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Don’t restrict your food intake. Skipping meals and reducing portions to the point of still being hungry after meals sets you up for craving sweets. Eat high-quality foods more often. Snack on fruit which is better choice than sugary sweets since it provides fiber and other nutrients.
When the craving happens. ask yourself, did I just eat? Go for a walk, do something to distract. If you are truly hungry for something, take the time to eat a meal.
Try one day of no sugar, no sweeteners and see how you feel. You can do it. The first day is the hardest. If you are certain you will have a craving that’s unbearable, have some fruit on hand.
No to artificial sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners are neurotoxins and should be avoided.(1) That blue, pink or yellow bag is not doing your brain or body any good. Try stevia instead.

Let me know how it goes.

Written by Kristina Cagno, MA

Blaylock, R. Dangers of artificial sweeteners. 2014. Retrieved from https://www.newsmax.com/health/dr-blaylock/splenda-artificial-sweetener-danger/2014/02/03/id/550558/ and another article here