Sugar, I'm gonna have to quit you!

Happy Friday,

I was inspired by a few clients this week. A few of them have taken sugar out of their diet COMPLETELY! Yes, you heard that right....completely. This is a really hard thing to do because sugar is in everything we eat. If you look at thenutrition facts on what you're eating chances are sugar will be on there in some form. Below are other names used to reference sugar.

sucrose fructose glucose maltose dextrose maltodextrin hydrolyzed starch invert sugar corn syrup honey cane sugar agave nectar sugar beets high-fructose corn sweetener maple sugar molasses

If you see any of these names listed just know they mean sugar. Sugar is the new 'low fat.' Today, we are going to discuss the benefits of taking 'unnatural' sugar out of your diet. Maybe you too will be inspired.

1. Fructose vs. Glucose

When we take added sugar out of our diet we will get rid of the 'non-essential' sugar in our diet (aka fructose or high fructose corn syrup). It is non-essential because WE DON'T NEED IT. Out bodies can function perfectly well without it. In fact, fructose can only be metabolized by the liver. Nothing else can break it down.

Glucose on the other hand is essential. Meaning....if we don't eat it out bodies will make it! Pretty cool, huh? Unlike fructose, glucose can be broken down by almost EVERY cell in the body. Why does this benefit you? Let me tell you... Metabolism will speed up Body will function more properly We will get more vitamins and minerals essential to our well-being SEE RESULTS FASTER

2. Weight Loss

Yes, I said it. Weight loss is a symptom of taking sugar out of your diet. Why.... As we have taken out sugar (AKA highly processed foods), we now have room for non-processed, healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables. Fruits have a natural sugar which can totally be metabolized and broken down by the body. As we create room for more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins, we are now turning out body into a fuel burning machine.

Example: Think about a high performing sports car such as a Ferrari, now, are we gonna put regular gas into this car and expect it to perform like it did at the dealership? No way, we have to put the highest quality gas into. And when we do that, man, this car moves!!!

Same thing with your body. Now, the question becomes, do you treat your body like a Ferrari?? Because....you, my friend, are a Ferrari. You body deserves to be treated like one. Put the highest quality gas into it!

3. Decrease your risk for certain diseases

Quitting sugar will not only turn you into a fuel-burning machine, but it will also decrease your risk of getting certain diseases. Which ones you ask.... Obesity - sugar is associated with weight gain Diabetes - sugar is one of the leading causes of type 2 diabetes Heart Disease - sugar raises bad cholesterol

4. Doesn't keep you full

Studies have found that fake sugar (ex. fructose) doesn't stimulate the brain like it does when you have real sugar (i.e. glucose). Because fructose has a different effect, we will find ourselves not feeling full as long which will have us re-opening that refrigerator door. Glucose will release the hormone Ghrelin which will keep you satiated (full).

5. More Energy

Who doesn't LOVE more energy? Man, if I could get more done in my day that would be amazing. Do you hit that 3pm slump at work too? Don't worry it's not just you. It happens to me too and reduces unnatural sugar from our diet has been associated with an increased energy level. That's a selling point all on it's own.

Alright, there goes my rant for today. Although, this is something to strive for, you don't need to quit cold turkey. I like my sugar too. I look forward to those weekend treats for a week well done. But... at least decreasing the amount of non-essential sugar from your diet is worth trying and considering. Maybe one day, I too will be on the no sugar band wagon. Great job to all those who have already cut sugar out of your diet. It is tough, but it is rewarding!!