Many of us are familiar with the feeling of being stressed out or anxious.
Whether it's looming deadlines at work, relationship drama, or just the day-to-day grind, it can be tough to keep our heads above water. What we may not realize is that our diet can have a big impact on how we handle stress.
Sugar can act as a trigger for anxiety and other mental health issues. That's because sugar causes spikes in blood sugar levels, which can lead to feelings of agitation and irritability. In addition, sugar is also believed to promote inflammation in the body, which can further contribute to feelings of anxiety and stress.
So, if you're looking for ways to manage stress and anxiety, cutting back on sugar is a good place to start. Not only will you feel better mentally, but you'll also enjoy some amazing benefits for your physical health. So go ahead and give it a try - your mind and body will thank you!
Awareness is key. When you're tuned in to your body, you'll be able to notice when the tension starts to build up. This can be a difficult journey, and it might take some time to get used to paying attention to your body, but it's worth it.
Take it slow and be patient with yourself. Every small step you take gets you closer to your goal.
Each step is awareness and small steps are the key to managing tension while building habits successfully. You got this!! Keep pushing Warrior!
WHEN SUGAR IS OUT OF THE PICTURE, YOU CAN EXPERIENCE:
● Glowing skin
● Less bloat
● Better sleep
● Improved sex drive
● Fewer cravings
● Easier weight loss
● And even less cellulite
ARE YOU READY TO GET STARTED?
SUGAR IS EVERYWHERE
Did you know that sugar occurs naturally in nearly all foods? In its most natural state, sugar contains enzymes, vitamins and minerals. However, refined sugar depletes the body of these nutrients and creates an acidic environment which can lead to digestive problems, sinus congestion, cellulite, headaches, mucus in the stool, and allergies. Consuming refined sugar also has a negative impact on blood sugar levels, which can cause irritability, anxiety, wrinkles, poor sleep, and hormonal imbalance. over time, this can also lead to more serious health problems. So next time you're reaching for a sugary snack, remember the potential consequences and maybe opt for something healthier instead.
IN ADDITION TO FEEDING INFLAMMATION IN THE CELLS AND SUPPRESSING IMMUNITY, SUGAR CAN ALSO:
● Increase the risk of cancer
● Lead to gastrointestinal problems
● Cause reactive hypoglycemia
● Interfere with your absorption of protein
● Cause food allergies
● Hamper weight loss
● Increase cholesterol
● Accelerate the aging process
● Increase anxiety and make you moody
● Complicate ADD, ADHD, and spectrum-related issues
● Weaken eyesight
SO HOW DO WE KICK THE
SUGAR HABIT?
#1: FOCUS ON GIVING YOUR BODY MORE OF WHAT IT NEEDS
Most of us have experienced the cycle of sugar addiction at some point in our lives. We eat too much sugar, feel terrible, and then promise ourselves that we'll cut back. However, cutting back isn't always as easy as it sounds. When we're deprived of sugar, our bodies can start to crave it even more. The key is to find a balance. Rather than focusing on what you can't have, try adding in more of the healthy, nourishing foods your body is really craving. Fresh veggies and unprocessed foods will help to restore balance and ease sugar cravings. You may even find that you naturally start to eat less sugar when your body is getting the proper nutrition it needs.
How to make it work:
● Try replacing your morning pastry with a bowl of oatmeal topped with fresh or dried fruit.
● Try eating healthy protein at every meal.
● Include more healthy fats like coconut oil, olives, and avocado.
● Eat your healthy meal before turning to sugar - you may find that you don’t even want the sweets.
#2: MOVE MORE
Our bodies are designed to move. When we deprive ourselves of that need, it can lead to imbalances and cravings. Make it your goal to move more throughout your day, especially if you sit at a desk for work.
How to make it work:
● Set a reminder on your phone to get up and stretch or walk around for 1-2 minutes every hour.
● Go for a walk on your lunch break.
● Find a buddy to try out a new dance class.
● Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
#3: FOCUS ON GRATITUDE
Have you ever had a moment where all you could think about was getting your hands on a sugary treat? We’ve all been there. Suddenly, our whole world narrows down to one thing: satisfying our craving. But what we often don’t realize is that sugar cravings are not just a physical issue. They’re also a sign that we’re out of balance mentally, emotionally, and prayerfully.
That’s why it’s so important to pay attention to our needs if we want to overcome our addiction to sugar. One of the simplest, most effective ways to do that is by focusing on gratitude. Say a Pray to God and give thanks.
When we take the time to appreciate the good things in our lives, we naturally become happier and less stressed. And when we’re happier and less stressed, we’re less likely to turn to food for comfort. So next time you find yourself reaching for the cookies, take a moment to pause and reflect on what you’re grateful for. It just might be the key to satisfying your sweet tooth without all the sugar.
How to make it work:
● Spend 5 minutes per day journaling about what you’re grateful for in your life.
● Speak your gratitude daily to a close friend or family member.
● Spend a few minutes each morning in prayer seeking direction.
Try incorporating these suggestions one at a time and pay attention to how you feel. Don’t worry about being “perfect”. Simply focus on one meal and one day at a time.
You can do this!
3 DELICIOUS RECIPES TO SATISFY
YOUR SWEET TOOTH
Here are 3 great recipes that helped me whenever I felt like I could kill for a cookie. They satisfied me when I feel that urge for sugary foods that would throw me off balance. Recipes are also located in the recipe section of the collective.
CHOCOLATE COVERED BERRIES SMOOTHIE
Serves 1
1 cup water or almond, hemp or coconut milk
½ avocado
1 ripe banana
1 cup of frozen berries
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon raw cacao
3-4 ice cubes
½ dropper of vanilla stevia
Place all ingredients in blender, and blend until smooth. Enjoy!
SIMPLE GREENS SALAD WITH GRAPEFRUIT TAHINI DRESSING
Serves 2
Salad:
2 cups spring mix
½ cup cucumber, chopped
5 or 6 cherry tomatoes
½ large grapefruit, sectioned
½ bunch parsley, chopped
Dressing:
½ grapefruit, juiced
3 tablespoons tahini
¼ teaspoon garlic
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
Prepare dressing by combining grapefruit juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper to a small bowl. Set to the side.
Prepare the salad by placing spring mix, cucumber, grapefruit pieces, and parsley into a salad bowl. Top with grapefruit tahini dressing. Serve immediately.
SIMPLY YUMMY BAKED APPLE
Serves 1
1 red apple
Dash cinnamon
Dash nutmeg
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon raw honey or maple syrup
1 Tablespoon raw pumpkin seeds
Slice the apple into ¼-inch thick slices. Sprinkle slices with cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
Bake for 20 minutes at 350 F. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup and top with raw pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
READY TO DITCH THOSE CRAVINGS FOR GOOD?
Take the time to think about how sugar affects your body and ask yourself if you really want to live like that. I know I reach for sugar when I’m not putting myself first and when I’m nutritionally depleted. Sugar cravings tend to get really bad when I’m over-tired and not making enough time for self-care.
Talk to you later!
I hope you enjoyed!
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