I was fascinated by a recent report that suggested sugar is about as toxic to our bodies as alcohol and that we eat far, far too much of it. You can find a good summary of the report here (the actual report is behind a subscription wall). Now I know this has been a little controversial but its basic arguments, that too much sugar is unhealthy and that sugar is addictive, do seem to be substantiated by the evidence. I also know that I am a terrible sugar addict with out-of-control cravings for mint aeros and jam.
Inspired by the report (and by the hope that a sugarless diet will shift that last bit of second-baby-fat), my husband and I have decided to do a ‘no sugar month challenge’ and March is the month. As of tomorrow, we are both going to try to exclude any items with added sugar from our diets. (Foods with naturally occurring sugars – fruits–are permissible). He feels he can do it. We both feel I will last about three days. We shall see. Declaring the challenge to the world is my way of seeking accountability in the hope I may make it to five days.
And what a good example we would set our kids right?
Would love companions in the journey……
The Outdoors Parent 
Day 2, right? How is it going so far? I saw that report too, it made me stop and think. I wouldn’t miss most sugary foods, but chocolate, now that’s a hard one for me to give up…
a) what baby fat?
b) you do not have a sugar addiction.
c) I’d be interested in any research around the benefits of modelling complete abstinence (which makes me think of alcoholics anonymous) vs. modelling the ability to enjoy something moderation, which feels like a more useful life skill (one I am still attempting to master).
Afraid I won’t be joining you on this particular journey, I have put my energy into (almost) giving up booze for the next few months instead.
It is interesting to consider why added sugar is not more clearly labelled on food. A little icon showing the number of teaspoons of added sugar to a product would be pretty persuasive and useful.
As a suffering sugar bunny, I take my hat off to the pair of you and wish you the best of luck! Look forward to future posts! 🙂
I agree – it would be much better if sugar were more clearly labelled. It’s everywhere.
So far we’re doing ok…I need to do an update post…giving up sugar has been easier than I thought, working out what to replace those little treats with (that I can be bothered to make) has been harder….
And Pippa – the summer before I got pregnant with The Monkey I bought three lovely summer dresses. They mock me from my wardrobe still.