When There's A Will, There Is A Way
Have you ever tried to break an addiction? I am addicted to sugar. And I mean really addicted. Cigarettes, liquor, and gambling were never really my attraction. But sugar? It has always been there for me. When I have a really productive day….I want something sweet. When I get mad…..I want something sweet. When I am out enjoying my friendships….I’d rather have cake than drinks on the town.
Believe me sugar addiction is real. According to the USDA, the average American consumed 156 pounds of sugar in 2000—an all-time high. Since then, consumption has dropped slightly and in 2013 the average American consumed 132 pounds. Recent research has shown that a high intake of carbohydrates, including sugar, releases a feel good chemical in the brain called serotonin. Think of how you feel after indulging in a high sugar meal or treat—almost euphoric, right? The high of a sugar rush is temporary though. After a few hours—or even a few minutes—you start to crash and you become tired, fatigued and lethargic.
Here is my theory: if it ain’t delicious, I ain’t eating it! Let’s talk about the substitutes I made in my life for sugar:
Now let’s be honest: I relapse A LOT! But when I find that sugar craving really elevated, I try to figure what is really bothering me. Addressing the real issue has been my saving grace and took a lot of practice. I love this by quote by Mandy Hale:” It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself and to make happiness a priority. It’s necessary.” Peace…..
Nice Yvette. ..that’s true talk. i love it
This is sooo inspirational. I’m guessing most of us didn’t even realize that sugar addiction was real, but can relate to it. It’s great that you convey how hard it actually was/is but that you also find ways to get by it. That is the inspirational part. I love the last paragraph. Definitely words to live by!
Awesome – love that you say the problem is somewhere else. I turned to food for a long time and now I realize when I get a craving, I’m prob stressed.