Give Me Some Sugar Baby!
Hi my name is Kristen and I’m a sugar/chocoholic. I love the stuff. If I were to have my dream day of eating it would consist of high quality hot chocolate and a chocolate filled croissant for breakfast and a little (well, not too little) box full of chocolate truffles for a mid-morning snack. Lunch would be a large, warm pazooki with chocolate ice cream and a large Dr Pepper. For an afternoon snack I would then have a bag of rollos and another large Dr Pepper.
Hhhmmm…what to have for dinner? I’m feeling like a little “real food” about this time so I’ll have a steak and a baked potato with the works. For dessert I’ll have a molten lava chocolate cake. Oh, and a large Dr Pepper. Now all I have to worry about is my bedtime snack. It’s easy enough, a bag of peanut m&ms. Oh why not throw in some chocolate milk too?
I don’t see a problem with that. Do you?
Alright, I guess I might want to avoid type II diabetes and having a brain that actually works is a good thing. I might also want to avoid being one of those 700 pound ladies that has to have a wrecking ball bash her bedroom wall down in order for her to get out of her house. That doesn’t look so comfortable. I better change my sugary ways.
In order to do this I’ve made a pact with two friends who have also wanted to lose weight and eat better. We’ve decided that May would be a sugar-free month for us. Our restrictions are; no products with sugar or white flour. You would be surprised out how much food is cut out with these two rules.
We discussed what our penalties would be if we broke these rules during May. Monetary penalties were discussed and then discarded. It would be too easy for me in a moment of weakness to decide that this one candy bar was definitely worth $100. No, it wasn’t money. We came up with something even more painful than that. Babysitting! Anytime you break the rules you have to baby sit the other participant’s children for a 4 hour period. Now that’s motivating!
I won’t lie. The first week of May has been difficult. Much more difficult than I thought it would be. I haven’t broken the rules yet but I have had moments where I’ve been close. If not for the specter of 12 unruly children running willy nilly around my house I would have given up on May 1st at 12:15 am.
It’s now the end of the 8th day and I’m wondering when this whole craving thing is going to subside. My grandpa once told me that when he quit smoking he was very cranky for the first two years and finally stopped craving cigarettes after about 7 years. Is that what’s in store for me? Yikes!
Even with all of the cravings and having sugary delicious goodies on every corner I must say that it’s been worth it so far. I really haven’t lost any weight yet but I feel better. I don’t have that blanket of fatigue wrapped around me all the time now. Sure I have a few moments where I’m tired but for the most part I feel pretty alert. I think I’m sleeping better too.
So what’s your advice on maintaining a sugar free lifestyle? Does anyone have any tricks to keeping me on the right track?
No advice, just my unending admiration. Not just for the sheer willpower involved in resisting Dr. Pepper but in the clever motivational rules!
Comment by Téa — May 8, 2006 @ 11:49 pm
Good for you Kristen. I’m doing something similar – while I’m not as strict as you, I am definitely trying to stay away from sugar, white flour, etc., and limiting calories (since weight loss is one of my goals). I’m eating more wheat bread, spinach salad, fresh veggies, stuff like that. Personally, I found that the overwhelming carb cravings went away after the first four or five days, so hopefully yours will subside soon! (I’m sure you know this, but watch to make sure you aren’t getting a lot of sugar through other sources, like corn syrup.) I’ve lost 30 pounds in seven weeks eating this way. Actually, I’ve lost most of my desire for food, strangely, and I can sort of look at it in a detached way now – what would the best fuel for my body be. I think it has to do with eliminating so many of the carbs. Good luck to you!
Comment by Sue — May 8, 2006 @ 11:57 pm
Im a chocolate snob, I admit it, so that limits what types of chocolate will make it into my mouth. American chocolate is brown sugary wax not suitable for adult human consumption as far as I am concerned (even Godiva isnt worthy, although Sees is), so only the less accessible stuff is granted entry. Works for me.
Comment by Kurt — May 9, 2006 @ 4:22 am
I’m diabetic, and a recovering sugar addict, so I just don’t have the stuff in the house. Ever. Well, on the rare occasion I’ll get donuts for the kids. But cookies or cake I can’t do, except on birthdays, but my kids are so unused to sugary foods my oldest won’t even usually eat cake. He’d rather have ice cream for his birthday.
Comment by Susan M — May 9, 2006 @ 6:27 am
Thanks for the words of encouragement and advise. Any little bit of encouragement helps!
Comment by Kristen J — May 9, 2006 @ 8:17 am
This is a good time of year to go off sugar, in my opinion. I had to be sugar-free for six years during college and the first bit of my marriage (my first pregnancy, if you can believe it, cured my body of its trouble with sugars), and the best time of year was spring and summer, because of FRUIT!!!!!!! So stock up, Kristen–it’s totally yummy, not too expensive, and good for you (and the kids!).
Comment by Keryn — May 9, 2006 @ 8:51 am
Congratulations, I should do the same….I’m thinking about it now as I open the bottom right-hand drawer of my office desk. Maybe I’ll start when I empty this drawer of it’s kit-kats, dove dark chocolates, almond joys and york mints. I have to keep my stash handy to give me the boost I need to handle the bridezillas and their moms….oh yeah and ’cause I’m just not strong willed like you. Opps, dropped a chocolate crum on my desk, I’ll lick my fingers and get back to work.
Comment by don — May 9, 2006 @ 9:25 am
I definitely love this time of year because of fruit.
Don, That’s exactly how I’ve been for the past few years…As soon as I finish this bag of chocolates I’ll go off sugar. Oh wait, as soon as I finish this ice cream. If it weren’t for babysitting I’d still be doing it!
I’m curious about Bridezillas though? What’s your occupation?
Comment by Kristen J — May 9, 2006 @ 12:31 pm
Kristen, I live in a world of estrogen and it isn’t any fun. My wife owns a bridal store and I work for her. She gets the fun of selling the dresses I get the problems of the brides when things don’t come in on time…or they’ve gained weight and the dress doesn’t fit…etc.
I own a movie theater in Orem, but don’t work there. Owning theaters is realitively fun, except for the employees and the people who sneak food in all the time.
Sorry, I’m going on and on….I need another chocolate fix!
Comment by don — May 9, 2006 @ 1:39 pm
Yikes! I can just imagine what the brides and their mom’ must be like. That is a job for one tough dude!
Owning a theatre could be a cool thing. I did take my family to the movies about a month ago. I bought this big combo pack for the family thinking it would be about $15. When the cashier told me it was $30 my jaw dropped and Geoff gave me some really dirty looks for awhile. I guess I should ask the price first!
Comment by Kristen J — May 9, 2006 @ 1:56 pm
LOL- this post reminds me of the Def Leppard song of almost the same title :) So are you going to be cutting back on your sugar intake after May, Kristen? Or is this just a battle of the will to prove that you can quit anytime you want to?
Comment by Elisabeth — May 9, 2006 @ 3:12 pm
Kurt,
Look for some chocolate made with Ocumare cocoa. It’s a variety grown in Venezuela, usually found only in high-quality products, and it’s easily the best in the world. (The Dutch built their reputation as chocolatiers on their smuggled supply of Ocumare during the 17th century). You can find single-origin Ocumare at Trader Joe’s, or try Chocolate El Rey, which can be purchased online. (Trader Joe’s is much cheaper). Go for the dark chocolate, by the way. Ocumare is unique in being naturally sweet, so it needs much less sugar and milk.
Comment by Serenity Valley — May 9, 2006 @ 3:40 pm
That’s one of the things I’m waffling on elisabeth. In the past it’s been kind of an all or nothing thing with me. Just like an alcoholic. I’m afraid if I partake on the first of June I’ll wake up on the 21st of June with a chocolate goatee, squished ding dongs in my pockets, m&m wrappers stuffed in my bra, and absolutely no memory of the past 3 chocolate and sugar filled weeks…but I so want sugary deliciousness on the 1st of June.
Serenity, thanks for the tip. If I choose to stick to my healthy ways maybe I can just go to Trader Joe’s and take pictures of it with my digital camera.
Comment by Kristen J — May 9, 2006 @ 4:35 pm
Kristen, you are HILARIOUS!!! LOL!
Comment by Elisabeth — May 9, 2006 @ 4:47 pm
What do your husbands think about what you are doing and did you force them into this way of living as well or are they supportive?
Comment by doubledang — May 9, 2006 @ 5:13 pm
I’m in on it, doubledang (well at least 95% in…) Since moving to Arizona two years ago I have added about 10 lbs. so I’m hoping to knock that back by tagging along with Kristen and the girls. I’m experimenting with the Ethesis-recommended “Shangi-la” method along the way too with pretty good results in the first 10 days…
(I say 95% because I totally macked some triple chocolate cake and ice cream at our daughter’s b-day dinner last week. Kristen looked a bit queasy with all that chocolatey goodness so close… and yet so far…)
Comment by Geoff J — May 9, 2006 @ 5:26 pm
The encouragement Kristen…. You will feel better and lose wieght. I’ve been doing the same for a few weeks and people are noticing. Also, if you need a fix of chocolate. 72% Scharffenberger chocolate has very little sugar and is actually very good for your heart. So a couple of squares with a handful of pecans are a great snack.
Comment by chronicler — May 9, 2006 @ 6:05 pm
when I’m not binging on sugar, my energy level is much better. It turns out that i crash as soon as I stop the constant candy feeding.
with that out of my life, I know I’m healthier and more energetically-balanced.
Ps- I was surpsied recently to get strong crvaings for a certain frozen Starbucks beverage I haven’t had in about 2 years. I don’t know why, but it was strong.
Comment by cchrissyy — May 9, 2006 @ 6:58 pm
Thanks for the advise. I did pick up some sugar-free chocolate covered almonds at Trader Joes today. If they’re sugar-free it means they’re calorie free too, right? ;)
Comment by Kristen J — May 9, 2006 @ 10:03 pm
I am addicted to “Jello’s Suger-Free Fat-Free Cook and Serve Chocolate Pudding”. (The Instant doesn’t even compare to the Cook and Serve!) Try it with a banana or some fat-free cool whip.
Comment by HD — May 10, 2006 @ 2:05 am
Let me tell you something. There id Dr Pepper and then there is Dr Pepper. Real Dr Pepper does not contain Corn Syrup. If you consider yourself a fan of Dr Pepper you owe it to yourself to order a case of the real thing.
Comment by a random John — May 10, 2006 @ 7:12 am
Kristen, good for you! I also started my own little 42-day make over on May 1st. For the first 9 days I was super good, no chocolate-sugary stuff, but then last night my husband and I went out on an actual date (MAJOR rarity) and we had some time to kill so I somehow ended up eating 5 pieces of baklava. Hmmm. Today, back on the wagon pretty much. Tomorrow, full swing again. The good news is that I’ve lost about 4 pounds since May Day, and I have felt a little stronger (I’ve been exercising too).
I know you’ll make it! Have you ever heard that song from the musical Carousel: “June is Bustin’ Out All Over”? Hopefully, neither one of us will be bustin’ out too much when June comes along! :-)
Comment by meems — May 10, 2006 @ 7:43 am
I’ve heard about the real Dr Pepper. Maybe that can be my reward for getting through May sugar free.
Meems-good for you too! No bustin out for us!
Comment by Kristen J — May 10, 2006 @ 8:08 am
Keep me posted on how it goes. I’m down 54 pounds as of this morning.
Comment by Stephen M (Ethesis) — May 10, 2006 @ 9:15 am
Kristen, may I suggest reading _The Schwarzbein Principle_. It talks at length about carbo-cravings and what to do about them.
But I gotta say, giving up sugar is not easy. Way to go–good luck!
Comment by Heather O — May 10, 2006 @ 11:00 am
Hats off to you, Kirsten. I think I could give up sugar, but no way could I give up chocolate. My favorite smoothie is some milk, half a banana and unsweetened cocoa powder with ice. Sometimes I’ve left out the banana, which makes a strong, bitter glass of very cold chocolate milk. I’ve also been known to nibble on baking chocolate.
Anyway, I know giving up favorite foods can be painful (had to give up dairy at one point and it nearly killed me). Hang in there.
Comment by Allison — May 10, 2006 @ 11:31 am
One hint for the cravings is that you may need to check what else you might be eating that is triggering them. Fruit, juices, rice, oats, whole grains, potatoes, any carb can keep the triggers for the cravings going. I have low carbed for a few years, (not so good at it for the moment), and those are some things to look at. Also increase the good fats you are eating, as fats are what will help fill you up and keep those hunger urges from coming back. Just some suggestions from someone that has tried to cut out sugar and other hidden sugars.
Comment by Tigersue — May 10, 2006 @ 11:42 am
I’ve heard about The Schwarzbein Principle it sounds pretty interesting. I’ll check it out.
Thanks for the info about good fats. I have been having some issues with the hunger thing so I hope that will help.
Allison-I haven’t totally given up on chocolate. I’m sticking with the super dark, healthy kind.
Comment by Kristen J — May 10, 2006 @ 12:07 pm
The Schwarzbein Principle is the plan that I use. She really discusses balance and the effects food has on our Hormones.
Comment by Tigersue — May 11, 2006 @ 10:21 am
If you cut down your sodium intake, you’ll be able to taste foods again. Then you may not need so much sweetener for foods to taste good. A good rule of thumb is to avoid anything that has more mg of sodium than calories.
Comment by DHofmann — May 11, 2006 @ 1:30 pm
Interesting, thanks for the info.
Comment by Kristen J — May 11, 2006 @ 3:26 pm
It’s been 27 days, Kristen, how are you holding up?
Comment by Téa — May 27, 2006 @ 11:14 pm
This has been harder than I thought. I figured I would only dream about it for a few weeks, but I’m still thinking about it a lot! 4 more days to go.
Comment by Kristen J — May 28, 2006 @ 9:51 am
I was wondering how you were doing too. Great job for sticking it out so long!
Comment by Jamie J — May 28, 2006 @ 11:41 pm
Can we strike up the band, Kristen?
I had “Hail the conquering hero” run through my mind tonight.
I offer my congratulations on a month well done.
Comment by Téa — June 3, 2006 @ 1:39 am
Thanks you guys. I actually didn’t make it the whole month. My grandma passed away on the 29th and I had to drive my mom up to Utah for the funeral and such. I just decided to quit so I wouldn’t have to deal with that during a somewhat stressful time. I’m thinking about going back on it again though.
Comment by Kristen J — June 3, 2006 @ 9:05 am
I’m proud of you, Kris. I, too, am a chocoholic.
But if you can go without it for three months, along with all other similar foods, the taste for it will subside, I promise!
what’s worked for me:
1- don’t buy it… don’t even touch it at the store.
2- tell everyone that you are giving it up and need support (this is also a great way to filter friend from foe!)
3- everytime you crave it, drink two glasses of water quickly.
4- put two pictures of yourself next to eachother on the fridge- one with you looking top knotch, and one not-so-hot!
5- tell your kids that you want to be healthy, and to keep an eye on you in case you get weak around junk food. Those little rascals can be the best defence!
Comment by Cat Redinbo — June 6, 2006 @ 5:27 pm
Oh, I know what you mean, my kids were very helpful during my sugar-free month!
Comment by Kristen J — June 6, 2006 @ 9:09 pm
What on EARTH is a “pazooki”?
Comment by Space Chick — November 20, 2006 @ 1:09 pm
Oh, let me explain…it’s a big hot chocolate chip (there are other varieties, but I don’t deal with those)that is in a round pan with a big scoop of ice cream on top. It is hot, and crispy, and gooey. In other words, it’s great!
Comment by Kristen J — November 20, 2006 @ 1:33 pm