This is the standard opening remark one may hear at any AA/SA/CA meeting. This title is fitting though, because sugar is one of the most addictive substances on earth. The sad part is that it is perfectly legal, it’s everywhere, in practically everything, and, unfortunately, hundreds of thousands of people all over the globe are hooked on it. Question: Why don’t they have a Sugar Anonymous Group?
While natural sugars (sucrose, fructose) are found in fruits, veggies, and some healthy grains, and are considered ‘healthy,’ refined sugar, over time, will wreck havoc in the body. Refined sugar is disguised as “added sugar” on food nutrition labels and is found in soda, fruit juices, seasoning salt, condiments, store bought cakes, pastries and other desserts.
Behaviors associated with sugar addiction are the same as with prescription and illicit drugs because it is used as an avenue to feel ‘up’ again after a night of bingeing, or as a coping mechanism to relieve stress, anxiety, or anger. This is so because of the one-two punch of the release of dopamine (the pleasure and reward hormone) and endorphins (relieves pain, stress and improves mood) in tandem producing that false euphoric feeling of being on top of the world–you know, the same feeling one experiences when opioids, cocaine, alcohol or crystal meth is used.
And just like the drugs listed above, if over consumed, sugar will cause one’s health to decline: heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, an inflamed hypothalamus, kidney failure, a fatty liver, and, if unchecked, death.
I know this sounds very bleak, but my goal for this blog is to paint a picture. My paint brush is experience. The beautiful colors are words of truth. I just painted my self portrait–I USED TO BE addicted to sugar. I’m not anymore. I had to Mine My Mind and surrender to the journey to optimum health. If you want to know how I won the battle, reach out via my email–wersisters4life@wp.com.
Oh. In case you’re wondering: ‘if it’s so harmful, why is sugar still being sold?’ ‘Why not advocate for change?’ SHORT ANSWER: Sugar is a commodity and as long as money is being made, the policies won’t change. So we have to.
References
- Addiction Center. “How Do People Develop A Sugar Addiction.” addictioncenter.com/behavioral-addictions/sugar-addiction.
- Solan, M. Is Sugar Healthy. August 1, 2022. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/is-sugar-unhealthy
DISCLAIMER:
The information contained in this article/blog is for informational/educational purposes only and does not supersede the advice of one’s primary care practitioner/clinician