Here’s an alarming statistic: Sugar is eight times more addictive than cocaine!
It’s no wonder it feels nearly impossible to just say NO! The fact is that refined sugar is addictive because people get hooked on the “high” they get when they eat it. Sugar literally releases the same neurotransmitters that are released in drug addicts when they get their fix.
In my opinion, sugar is worse than cocaine, heroine and meth combined because it’s so readily available and widely accepted in our culture. Over 80% of packaged foods in American grocery stores contain sugar!
To boot, sugar is deeply ingrained in our culture. We use sugary treats in all our celebrations. We use it to show our love and appreciation. We even have holidays that revolve around it!
Which brings me to Halloween – the perfect time to look at all the ways sugar is not so sweet to us.
There are literally hundreds of scientific reasons to kick the sugar habit but below are my top 10 favorites. This sweet stuff is wrecking havoc on our bodies. Not convinced? Try going off it for just two weeks and feel the difference for yourself.
Along the way you may need some alternatives to help wean you off the hard stuff. Try our favorite Decadent Raw Brownies or Jo’s Pumpkin Fudge. Increase the amount of sweet fruits and veggies you’re eating–things like Granny Smith apples and baked sweet potatoes.
10 Reasons to Just Say No to Sugar
Now it’s your turn. Are you addicted to sugar? How are you getting your fix? Are you ready to ditch sugar for good? Leave me a comment below.
Julie Peláez and Jo Schaalman
Jo Schaalman and Julie Peláez are co-authors of the book The Conscious Cleanse: Lose Weight, Heal Your Body, and Transform Your Life in 14 Days, a best-selling, step-by-step guide to help you live your most vibrant life. Together they've lead thousands of people through their online supported cleanse through their accessible and light-hearted approach. They've been dubbed “the real deal” by founder and chief creative director Bobbi Brown, of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, beauty editor of the TODAY show.
To learn more about “Jo and Jules” and to download a free e-cookbook for a sampling of the delicious food served up on the Conscious Cleanse, please visit their website.
Pump up your cravings for health with a class by Jo and Jules:
Conscious Cleanse Detox Flow - Jo Schaalman
Traditional Hot Yoga - Julie Peláez