According to the experts, consuming too much added sugar impacts your skin, obesity, diabetes, and in some cases heart health. Did you know that at least 10% of the US population is considered true sugar addicts? If you think you’re one of them, don’t stress! Below we broke down the benefits of a sugar detox ANNNND how to get started!
Because what’s a better way to get started on your summer bod, than an at-home detox?!
HIDDEN SUGAR:
Sometimes you're consuming added sugar and you're not even aware of it! The obvious high levels of sugars are in foods such as colas, juices, cereals, cookies, cakes, and candies! However, added sugar also sweetens items you wouldn't expect, such as bread, soups, some cured meats and sauces like ketchup!
BENEFITS OF A SUGAR DETOX:
Even if it’s only a 3 day detox, you’ll feel the impacts immediately! Most people experience weight loss, stable energy levels, clearer skin, improved sleep, cleaner teeth, feeling more satisfied with meals, healthier gut, less cravings, AND a heightened sense of taste! The list goes on, but those are definitely the highlights. So, now it’s just a matter of executing our 5 simple steps!
STEP 1: PLANNING MAKES PERFECT!
Since we’re in quarantine, this is the BEST time to start a detox. Take this opportunity to clear out your fridge, freezer, cupboards, and pantry. What are you getting rid of? Any offending snacks or foods! The hardest part of your sugar cleanse will be avoiding sneaky sugars hiding in your groceries, like sauces, yogurt, juices, etc. Your best plan of action is it meal prep, and plan ahead! Using a meal planning app like Flat Tummy App, will help ensure you’re staying on track with your goals!
STEP 2: FOCUS ON HEALTHY FATS & FIBRE!
Healthy fats and fibre will be your best friend - in that order! Starting with the healthy fats, they will help curb your cravings, improve satiation, and keep your energy high. You’ll want to stick with nuts, seeds, lean meats, and fish. Foods like broccoli, avocado, and edamame are a double bonus, because they’re high in BOTH!
STEP 3: GET ENOUGH SLEEP & WATER!
This will help minimize the impact of withdrawal symptoms that can occur. Regular healthy amounts of sleep (7-9 hours a night) will help balance your hunger hormones, and you’ll be less likely to crave easy (and bad) sources of energy that are often associated with sugar. Similarly, drinking large amounts of water every day will help maintain your blood sugar levels. This should keep your system running smoothly, and again, minimize any impact of withdrawal symptoms. So be sure to grab your Flat Tummy Water Bottle, and keep that baby full and nearby at all times!
STEP 4: PRACTICE STRESS MANAGEMENT!
Depending on how much sugar you consume daily, the first few days will be the hardest. Believe it or not, stress causes you to crave sugary ‘easy to eat’ foods even more. To avoid emotional eating or boredom eating, try practicing stress management! Some ideas to keep your stress in check include at home exercises, going for a walk, reading a book, trying calm and relaxation vitamins, and mediation breathing exercises!
STEP 5: COMBAT CRAVINGS WITH FRUIT
If you’re suffering from cravings, the best way to combat them would be using low glycemic fruits! Most berries, anything from the citrus family, and green apples are great natural options to keep your sweet tooth satisfied, without breaking your detox. They will help provide some sweetness and you’re still benefiting from the nutrition fibre and antioxidants. It’s also smart to incorporate sour, tarte, and bitter foods into your diet, as it’ll help rest your taste buds and fight those pesky cravings!
BONUS TIP: DON’T RELY ON SUGAR FREE ALTERNATIVES!
This tip definitely goes out to those creatures of habit! We're all guilty of it sometimes, where you find something you like and you stick to it. Even if it’s only a 1-week cleanse, you’re making a major lifestyle change, and it’s okay to invest in journey, and in yourself! So that means trying new meals and ingredients, venturing out of your comfort zone, and giving it a real go!
So there you have it babe! All the reason why sugar cleanses are trending right now, and why you should try it yourself! Be sure to let us know how it goes!
