Shuga Detox

So after I posted last night I started looking around on the internet to see what the buzz is on sugar overeating, how it is approached, defined, compared to, what it does to the brain and body and what to do about it. There was plenty out there. In fact, I was pretty surprised to learn that it is a hot topic in magazines and online chat rooms, etc. In fact the term sugar addiction is pretty readily thrown around with expert so-and-so saying sugar affects the same area of the brain as addictive substances like cigarettes and drugs and other expert who's-n-what's saying kid's are serious contenders as little shuga addicts with all the juice, soda, candy, and fast-food crap they are dealt. To sum it up a little of reading all these things went a long way in motivating me.

First of all, I could easily relate to EVERYTHING that was being said about sugar addiction. I too have had some serious jonesing for a sugary treat and lately I deliver on the craving almost before it begins. Second of all, it only stands to reason that my kids are seeing me eat tons of sugary crap and even though I strictly limit their partaking, they will no doubt be affected by my terrible example. This is not what I want. Not to mention all the affects that sugar is having on my overall health, mood, and weight. SOOOOOOOOO...

I am now on a sugar detox. Oh excuse me, that's SHUGA detox. Quitting cold turkey was compared to quitting smoking cold turkey. However truth there is to that and my initial reaction is that must be quite an overstatement I have to say I think I am a better candidate for cold turkey than slow weaning. Why? Well slowly cutting back is as good as nothing for me. It requires that control to use judgement about quanitites and measurement, not my strong point. I can, however, set a boundary for myself that is completely black or white and then make myself accountable. For example, no more desserts, no more treats, no soda, none, nada, zip. This might not sound like the right approach but I believe it is my best chance at actually cleansing my system of the sugar and getting back a healthy balanced appetite. That said it could be really easy to get back to where I am if after the detox I go hog wild like it's Christmas morning rewarding myself for a goal accomplished. Counterproductive to say the least. I'll be working on writing up my rules for after the detox but I haven't planned that all out just yet. TBD. That's to be determined.

Here's the timeline. Detox from today March 9th until Q's birthday on April 3rd. I can have fruit or sugar-free gum to get me through the tough times that are sure to come. Sound silly?? Well, I know there will be withdrawal and cravings galore - that's where the gum or fruit come in to help. On April 3rd I will have one normal portion of cake and ice cream to celebrate Q's first birthday(ALREADY!) and after that I'll have some new rules to follow concerning SHUGA in my life.

I made a countdown on the fridge to cross off on my way. I also made a sign that outlines my rules and invites anyone who sees it to ask me if I'm sugar free. It is hanging on the fridge and there to remind me as well as encourage Brian to ask often. Accountability is important. So here goes.

DAY 1 (cue dramatic music that fades into a 007 theme song)..........................