Beyond Sugar Shock

If you pay attention to some of the most disturbing health challenges we face today, it is quite clear that sugar it one of the primary culprits. We are bombarded with commercials that feature sugary treats, fast food chains that highlight sugar laden menus, and so called vitamin enhanced cereals, and fruit punch juices all loaded with sugar. Let’s not leave out so called healthy yogurts, energy drinks, power bars and last however not least, chemical and sugar loaded processed foods.  When you look at the listed ingredients, sugar is in all kinds of sauces, condiments and breads. With half of the population being diabetic, pre diabetic and suffering from illnesses provoked by our sugar loaded foods, Beyond Sugar Shock is a book we should all have in our library. Especially if we have children!! 

What I liked about this book is that there is a quiz in the beginning that helps you to identify if you are a borderline, full blown, or an emotional sugar addict which is very different from a person who enjoys moderate sweet consumption. Reading this book makes you or, perhaps I should say me, very conscious of my mood when a sweet craving attacks. Although I do not have a cupboard full of candy nor is my refrigerator filled with puddings, cake or soda, when the sugar monster rears its ugly head, a trip to the farmers market for a (whole) homemade key lime pie and a quart of cherry vanilla ice-cream is all I can think about. Sometimes I will add a pint of vanilla ice-cream and stop by the market for organic :) but very sweet chocolate sauce. The scary part is I do not know peace until it is all gone, which is usually within two days.  When I analyze these attacks, they occur when I am stressed and the sugar rush makes me feel better, it actually soothes my spirit.

What this book did for me was to make me understand why I overindulge when I go on a sugar binge and more importantly, the detrimental effects overindulging in sugar has on my organs, energy levels and moods.  Following her prescripts, you can map out a plan for whatever your sugar issue may be. For some, we may not stop cold turkey however, information provided in the book can one, makes you aware of the addictive nature of sugar and two, show you that while the taste of sugar is sweet, the health issues overindulgence can causes are not.  What I found truly helpful is the support she shares that you can take advantage of via online sites, support groups, recipes and even supplements that can be helpful. I am working on becoming a vegan (about 80% there), so I would have liked to see more emphasis placed on a vegan diet. However Ms. Bennett provided enough information to take me off the road to emotional Sugarland.  Hey I may even become sugar free. Trust me when she finishes with you she gives you food for serious thought.




FTC Disclosure:  This book was sent to me by Hay at no cost to me and the opinions expressed  are solely my own.