Detox From Sugar Addiction

Detox From Sugar Addiction - What to Expect in the First Few Days

What’s it like to detox from sugar addiction? That’s a valid question and it’s worth a thorough answer because as beneficial as it is to quit sugar, it’s not easy to do. At least not in the first week or so.

Inspired by Cheryl - Created by DALL-E

These days, many folks are talking about quitting junk food, processed foods and sugar. Not everyone, mind you, but this is an idea that seems to be gaining popularity.

And of course, as the “No Sugar Coach” I love this idea because I have seen the positive results that eliminating sugar can give us. 

Let’s face it, that stuff tastes great and provides a sense of pleasure when we want to kick back and relax. For many of us it’s hard to imagine watching a movie, playing a game of cards or even reading a good book without having a favourite snack by our side. Chips, nuts, popcorn, cookies, candy… it’s always nearby. It’s our reward that allows us to numb out and relax after a hard week.

Quitting sugar and junk food is both challenging and rewarding, but the transition to healthier food is not painless. There are physiological and psychological changes that occur in the first few days. To help you navigate this journey, I am sharing a few insights and hopefully, helpful information with you.

But... before we get into the details, here’s a question for you? “Why bother? Is the reward worth the pain and the effort?” 

My answer is a “Definite YES! The long-term benefits far outweigh the cost. It is worth doing.”

Okay, so what can we expect when we stop eating sugar, processed foods and junk food? Here we go…

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Blood Sugar Levels and Insulin Response

In the first few days your blood sugar levels will begin to go down. If you’re diabetic, you’ll want to keep an eye on your blood sugar and adjust your medications accordingly. It is imperative that you check in with your doctor before making changes to your diet. This is very important.

Your body was accustomed to quick surges of glucose from sugary snacks, leading to spikes in blood sugar followed by rapid drops. When you eliminate these foods, your body begins to adjust to using stored glycogen and fat for energy. That adjustment period can make you feel a bit tired and irritable. Don’t worry… it’s normal.

In the meantime, your insulin won’t be so busy trying to keep your blood sugar down. So, it too will stabilize and that will cause your energy to return, and it will help stop your cravings. 

Withdrawal Symptoms

A detox from sugar addiction can feel very much like withdrawing from any other addictive substance. Not everyone experiences withdrawal symptoms but if you do, they will pass quickly. Mostly people get headaches, irritability and mood swings. Yes, you can become “cranky”. You may want to start this detox on a weekend so you’re not out of sorts at work, biting off the head of a co-worker!

Your body is coping with the absence of sugar which always provided a quick boost for energy. When you eat sugary treats and junk, you feel “good” because you’re on a sugar high. That’s because the carbs stimulate serotonin and dopamine in your brain which are “feel good” hormones. When the sugar is gone, you will know because it can leave you feeling low at first. That’s a temporary feeling. Your body is adjusting, and you’ll be right as rain in no time.

Brain Fog to Brain Clarity

Brain fog is a common experience in the first 2 to 3 days. It makes it hard to focus, or to think clearly. So many of us rely on sugar and junk for a quick mental boost. But that’s dangerous. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take long to develop a dependency. But as your body adjusts and your blood sugar levels stabilize, mental clarity returns and can sometimes even surpass previous levels. Amen to that!

Emotional Rollercoaster

Sugar has a huge impact on mood regulation because of its effects on neurotransmitters. This is why you may feel moody, teary, frustrated, anxious, and sad. This isn’t the case for everyone, but if you’re feeling that way, you’re not crazy. In fact, you are quite normal.

After All Is Said and Done

Here are a few final thoughts. Removing sugar, processed foods and junk food from your life is a rewarding achievement that opens the door to so many other benefits. As you choose whole foods and wholesome nutrients over sugar and junk, you naturally empower your body to function optimally, paving the way for a healthier relationship with food. 

We humans rarely make large changes suddenly, unless we are provoked by crises. Normally, we are more inclined to make gradual, incremental changes. Removing sugar, processed foods and junk food from your life will be the same. Remember, this journey is not a marathon, nor a sprint. It is a long walk where you can make changes and take the time to enjoy the results. The hardest part is starting the journey. This I know to be true… your health transformation will be worth the initial discomfort. 

Stay strong and keep pushing through those initial few days!

If you need help dealing with cravings for junk and highly processed foods and assistance to detox from sugar addiction you can contact me here.

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