Last week, I did a 7-day sugar detox in which I limited refined sugar within my diet. Did you do it too? Well, it was amazing! I encouraged all of the participants to keep a journal to record their observations, bodily changes, reflections, etc. I did that for myself and today I want to share the 5 things that I realized just by limiting refined sugar for a week.
- It is possible. I really didnโt want to give up my sweet treats (my chocolate fix after lunch, my after dinner ice cream, and my coffee creamer); however, the short time frame made it do-able. Having a food plan also made it possible to stay on track and not cheat. I stocked the fridge with replacement foods (fruit, almond milk, etc.) which also made it easier to stay on track.
- My husband was more committed than I was. I couldnโt believe it! He started the detox 2โ3 days in advance, prepped his meals in advance, and stayed on track. His commitment continues to inspire me because he didnโt stopโฆheโs still going! So what do you think that means for me? I canโt quit either!
- Your body truly responds to what you put in/take away. I knew to expect side effects and they did come. I had headaches around 3:00 pm. Also, my sleep pattern changed because I started getting up earlier (around 5:30 am). This wouldnโt have been a bad thing if Iโd gone to bed earlier, but I didnโt. But thereโs good news–the headaches passed by day 3, and the cravings subsided too. I fell into the routine and after a while my substitute foods became satisfying.
- Challenges are more fun when you do them together. I enjoyed hearing about othersโ successes! It was amazing! I loved talking to people individually, hearing their concerns, and giving suggestions about alternative foods they could try in place of refined sugar. And I met new friends! Now we have a supportive community that will continue to inspire and grow through our shared interest in health and wellness.
- I can give up something permanently. I told all of the participants that I wanted them to adopt one change that they could sustain going forward. That was my hope for them and for me! And you know what? I think I’ve found my one change. I’m going to give up coffee creamer and use either almond milk (zero or low sugar, of course) or half & half instead. This swap was not as big of a deal as I thought, so I’m happy to make this a permanent change!
There you have itโ-the 5 amazing things that happened when I limited refined sugar for 1 week. I share my reflections here to inspire you to participate in a challenge if you ever have a chance. Several members of our sugar detox group expressed interest in doing another detox at a later date, so we will. Itโs going to happen! If you’d like to join the waitlist for the next sugar detox, sign up HERE. In the meantime, here’s a great article to help you find ways to limit your refined sugar intake today.
Until next time, stay healthy and safe friends!
Mrs. Traylor is a Fitness Instructor, NASM Certified Personal Trainer &ย Nutrition Coach, AFPA Certified Prenatal and Postnatal Fitness Specialist,ย wife, and momma who provides actionable advice for positive lifestyle changes with fitness, nutrition, and wellness.ย Read about Wendyโs inspiring entrepreneurial journey, and subscribe to Wendy’s newsletter here!