Have you noticed that you eat way too much sugar from foods such as those found in processed carbs, dairy, and sweets? In a post for Rodale Wellness, Tom O’Bryan discusses the addictive nature of sugar and processed carbohydrates. He also provides advice for those who want to break their sugar habit for good.
O’Bryan says that the foods that contain sugar, including highly processed carbohydrates, are very addictive. When you stop eating these foods suddenly the human body can go through a condition called gliadin-casein sugar-derived opiate withdrawal. The symptoms can include:
- Nausea
- Low-energy
- Depression
- Headaches
This can make breaking your sugar habit very challenging, especially if you make sudden changes to your diet. O’Bryan estimates that 10% of people have significant sugar withdrawal.
Fortunately, there are ways that you can make this process work. These include:
- Adding a little extra salt: Just a bit of salt on the tongue help with preventing leg cramps. It can also be a way to substitute a sugar craving for a nutrient the body needs.
- Drinking water: Going off of sugar can dehydrate you, so make sure to drink plenty each day.
- Staying active: Staying positive during the withdrawal process is important. Exercising creates endorphins that have a positive effect on mood.
- Getting the timing right. O’Bryan recommends not starting this process when you are feeling stressed, such as major life changes. Instead, wait until you are good spot in your life to start cleansing your body of sugar.
It can be surprising to realize that your favorite foods have such a strong grip on your body and mind. The symptoms of weaning yourself off of sugar may seem intimidating, but the rewards are well worth it.
Want to learn more about breaking your sugar habit?
Read the full article here: “How to Navigate Through Sugar Withdrawls.”
