Welcome! Welcome! And Happy 2012 to you. I reckon it’s going to be a ripper. And a great time to shed the stuff that holds us back. Like sugar. (The astrologists agree, apparently).
Image by Will Murai
For the next eight weeks I’m going to “hold your hand” through the process of quitting sugar. It is a bit of a process and it took me months of research and guinea pig antics to find the safest, most effective, gentlest, most permanent and enjoyable (yes!!) method.
I overeat. I’m food obsessed. I was a starch addict. I have an auto-immune disease which means I have problems with hypoglycemia.
Ergo, I get your fear and resistance and I know all the little tuggings going on right now in your being.
But know this: this process works. And it’s worth doing. Even if just for eight weeks. To see what happens.
This is our mantra: to see what happens. We’re experimenting.
This is how it’s going to work:
* You read the book. I suggest reading the whole lot. Then refreshing week-to-week as you go through the process. No drama if you’re just getting around to reading it. You can follow the 8-week program in your own way.
* Every Monday I’ll do a post that updates you with some extra tips, provides comfort and answers to a bunch of your questions. Because you will have some!
* You need to post your questions below (and I answer them the following Monday). Of course, other quitters might answer them in the comments forum in the meantime.
* I’ll also haul in a few nutritionists and experts to answer some of the questions and comments. I’ll introduce them in advance.
* In week 6 I’ll be running a webinar where I’ll be able to answer further queries live. I’ll be posting dates/times down the track.
* Finally, the comments section below is where all the activity will take place. Be sure to tick the “update me on follow-up comments” box so you can stay up to date on answers, ideas, threads. You’ll be astounded by how much help and comfort is out there.
One request: lets’ try to keep comments to questions, feedback and advice!
A couple of questions I get asked a lot:
“I’m stalling because I feel like ‘I’m missing out’ by quitting sugar”
I reckon this is at the absolute emotional core of all of us. It’s really weird. Even contemplating a day without chocolate or a muffin leaves us with a foreboding dread. It’s a deep dread. A mucky dread. A dread that’s hard to name and it makes us shitty if we try to face it. But it kind of whispers to us, “if not a sweet treat, then what?”. What have you got to lift you? To comfort you? To look forward to?
Back in January last year, I felt emotionally unanchored by the idea of going without sugar. And sad. I truly felt like something was being ripped from me, like being left orphaned – which is rather dramatic, I know, but it’s what is going on for many of us.
Sugary treats (fruit juice, sultanas, cakes etc) have been dangled in front of us since we could chew. They served as emotional salves and bribes and cocoonings. Often by our mothers. Sugar is associated deeply with attachment and belonging. Not just because it’s chemically addictive and completely integral to any social situation, but because of the ingrained, dark and messy psychic ties.
There is nothing else I can say to this other than: be brutal. Being brutally aware that this is what the dread, the ‘missing out’ feeling is about helps, I find. It gives this whole 8-week “experiment” a sturdy sense of purpose: let’s see if I can face this irrational need to be comforted by my mother/sugar. And find my own sense of anchoredness and comfort.
“Why did you quit?”
The idea was planted before me by way of a Sunday Life column idea. I always try out every idea I write about, so before I interviewed David Gillespie (author of Sweet Poison), I went two weeks without sugar. I started, it felt good, I kept going.
But really, this was simply one of several “prompts”. I’d been told by countless specialists and nutritionists to get off sugar for my AI disease. But the resistance, the excuses stopped me. But the prompts kept coming.
And I think this is a really good thing to look out for: the “universe” (apologies for using this kind of language) will direct you to something when it’s your time to act.
I would really advise anyone who decides to quit sugar to reflect on the prompts they’ve had – perhaps you’ve had three emails about the evils of sugar pop up in your email recently, or you watched a kid go mental from too many Christmas lollies and it scarred you or…?. Again, it makes the “experiment” seem to have a very directed, secure purpose.
“I’ve tried quitting before and I’m scared that this time will fail, too”
Fair fear. There’s nothing worse than groundhog day-ish failure. But I’m guessing in the past might have been:
a) doing it to lose weight or because “it’s the New Year and Goddammit I have to stick to a resolution”. Or some such rigid dictate.
Instead, I suggest this time you do this to feel better. It’s an instant reward. It’s immediately achievable. Goals set too far out (weightloss takes weeks to kick in) or that are too rigid are not appealing and stick-able.
b) applying too much self-discipline. The thing is self-discipline is like a muscle. Yes, it gets stronger with use. But it has its limits – it can fatigue and burn out. Countless studies show that we have limited reserves of motivation. It’s why we collapse on the couch and eat icecream after a day of pushing ourselves.
So, instead, I suggest – in fact, it’s another mantra we’re going to stick to – don’t push yourself with this. Be gentle. And give yourself a lot of non-sugar treats, so the muscle doesn’t wear out.
Some extra reading:
Each week I’ll post a few little reads that will further solidify your conviction (more purpose fuel to the experiment fire!).
* A study by Leiden University in the Netherlands showed eating sugar made people look older.
Even when other factors affecting appearance were accounted for, such as actual age, smoking and a history of sunbathing. Overall, there was a five-month hike in perceived age for every 0.18 gram increase in glucose per litre of blood.
* The world is catching on to the dangers of sugar: Denmark has slapped on a sugar tax.
Denmark first slapped a fat tax on saturated fats. Now lawmakers plan to hit sugar Denmark will levy an extra six Danish Kroner ($1.05) on every kilogram of chocolate from January 1.
“Before the tax was only on candy, but now it will be on everything else that includes sugar,” complained one manufacturer. “If you eat cucumbers in brine, that has sugar in it and will be taxed.”
Um, I kinda say, FAIR ENOUGH!!
Over to you now! Post your questions and fears and comments and feedback below!!!
I’m so glad to see this because today is day 1 for me! I’m so excited/scared that I’ll fail but I really like your 2 month approach. I’m actually fructose intolerant so will also be giving up wheat and a few other things. I’m really look forward to noticing any changes in my mood and body. I’ll be checking back in to this post regularly as I need all the support I can get!
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I’m looking forward to trying to reduce the sugar & see the benefits, although I’m going away tomorrow for a week I am still going to try to cut back & follow your advice! I’m excited!!!
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January 3rd, 2012 at 2:35 pm
Don’t stress about travelling…simply stick to the replacing obvious things – like avoiding cereal and going for eggs on toast etc.
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January 10th, 2012 at 12:07 pm
Thanks Sarah & must admit found it easier being away & busy instead of at home & thinking about every bit of food
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Thanks so much for this inspiration. All the research and reading I’ve done have pointed to sugar and white flour as the main culprits of many of our health (and weight) concerns. Thank you so much for including the analogy of will-power as a muscle. I can usually stay on track with my healthy-eating goals until 8 or 9 at night. Then all bets are off. When this happens, I just try to be patient with myself but feel there must be a better long-term solution. Thanks again, and I look forward to reading your updates!
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February 4th, 2012 at 2:27 pm
Hi Hannah, when the 9.00pm withdrawal hits… Go for a glass of water and then try to convert those thoughts of desire/craving to ‘riding out a wave’… up and down, under the curl… and if you hold out long enough.. you wont get ‘dumped’ and the craving will pass… it only takes a couple of minutes. Pretty much the same as quitting smoking. Then all you have to do… is avoid any future temptations… don’t put yourself in the position of ‘temptation’. Be strong… look at the commodity (temptation) smile at it, say a “I chose a healthy lifestyle” and walk on. You’ll notice that your body straightens and your step becomes stronger. It’s quite a rush. The most difficult thing about sugar, is what processed products it is ‘hidden’ in and avoiding purchasing these… even bread contains sugar… most processed foods do. Good luck!
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My diet is so restricted due to food intolerances that I am not going to cut out sugar, but I hardly consume any anyway. I don’t eat fructose or gluten, as well as many other things. This blog has encouraged me to eat better, be more active and I changed my diet to more of a paleo way of eating. I was quite healthy before, but now I am even more so. I have never felt better.
And to those people who are having trouble cutting out sugar, from someone who has had to cut out most of her diet and completely change the way I eat due to health reasons, if you just keep going and don’t give up, you’ll completely get used to it and you’ll feel so much better for it. It’s hard at first but you’ll never go back once you’re there.
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January 2nd, 2012 at 1:32 pm
Sarah, I am exactly the same, with coeliacs, egg and dairy intolerances its certainly changed my whole view of food.
It is easier to tell people what I CAN eat, rather than what I can’t.
But in the long term I am so much healthier for eating the things my body can tolerate.
Ive started cutting out sugar again just because I did it a year ago and have never felt better…
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January 3rd, 2012 at 2:36 pm
Gosh, we do so much damage to our bodies… I just wonder if sugar didn’t start it all?
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January 6th, 2012 at 12:05 pm
Yes – I feel that sugar could be the original antagoniser with the build -up of yeast in the gut. Completely avoiding all sugar for a period till the yeast has died off in your gut will actually improve problems with intolerances. You may find your system will easily cope with dairy etc. once again, or perhaps even for the first time. Quitting sugar is the best first step and I recommend taking a look at bodyecology by Donna Gates for more information and as a complement to your (Sarah’s) 8 week program – which I must say I have just discovered and am excited to get involved in!
April 13th, 2012 at 2:05 pm
Actually my doctor told me that you can’t just wait for it to die, it could be years. You have to actually kill it. I just started taking a homeopathic suppository from him to kill the candida and we’ll see how it goes.
I am almost sugar free. My daily treat is 2 pieces of dark choc after lunch and 2 after dinner. I’m just not willing to give this up. I don’t drink any alcohol that is how I justify it..
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I quit alcohol and took up sugar instead! Crikey. Anyway being fructose/lactose intolerant made it not such a good decision to have three serves of xmas pudding slathered in brandy butter followed by half a bag of licorice allsorts…Needless to say I bought the whole lot up. Nice. So I’ve been sugar free since Boxing Day and have started sleeping through the night for the first time in about 6 months. Now that IS nice! I’m excited to see what else happens! Here’s good luck to us all xxx
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January 3rd, 2012 at 2:37 pm
YES, focus on benefits like sleep etc…rather than weight. I’ll keep saying this…our goal is feeling better. Period. Weight loss takes too long to see the results and might not happen…
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Hi! I bought your e-book and just finished reading it. It’s really interesting and motivating and I’m seriously thinking about going through with it, because it would be amazing not to be addicted to sugar. I don’t like the idea of being addicted of something, that’s why I’ve never even considered drinking coffee and why I’m afraid of beginning to drink tea. Though I realize that in comparison of my sugar addiction, it’s nothing.
However, I have a question that kept popping up in my head while I was reading your book and also was surprised that it didn’t say anything about it: what about all the carbohydrate in potatoes, pasta, bread and so on? I mean, carbohydrate is, in a way, sugar. It transforms in to sugar. I don’t how to put it, but I figure you know what I mean.
So, where do you stand on that point? I read about the “toasts”, “baked potato chips” steak and “chips”, though it didn’t say much about pasta or potatoes in food.. anyway: do I eat it or stay away from it completely?
I would be really grateful for an answer!
Thank you for a great blog and book!
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January 2nd, 2012 at 1:16 pm
Those ‘sugars’ are glucose, which is the same as in our blood, so very different kind of sugar from fructose, sucrose etc.
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January 2nd, 2012 at 1:42 pm
Okay, thanks.. I get what you’re saying, but I guess I’m too hung up on the whole “LCHF” (Low Carb High Fat) thing that’s going around these days.
It’s just, I’ve read so much about it that as soon as I hear the word “carbohydrate”
I instantly think “sugar”. Only there’s “slow” and “fast” sugars, but sugars all the same.
But, it’s great that the book says that it’s okay to eat bread, chips and so on (in a moderate amount, of course). Just confusing sometimes.
(:
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January 2nd, 2012 at 4:53 pm
I know what you mean! That LCHF diet is soooooooooo popular at the moment! People sure seem to be losing a lot of weight doing it. I reckon that the best thing with anything is not to get too obsessed with it though. I think that just take it easy and I suppose, eat moderately, whatever it is you eat.
January 2nd, 2012 at 5:34 pm
Hannah for me, getting off sugar was really effective in itself. I was still eating bread, pasta, etc fairly regularly, while also ramping up the full-fat dairy. Still dropped a few kgs and the bloating (that I didn’t even know I had) deflated in just a few days after I quit sugar, which was amazing.
I’ve been doing some paleo/primal reading lately (LCHF I suppose) – a few websites and also Nora’s book – and it seems as though bread and pasta are right up there with sugar. I’m now trying to follow a ‘primal’ style of eating which for me showed similar results to getting off sugar, but more pronounced. My efforts were slightly derailed by Christmas/New years but I’ll be getting back into it tomorrow!
In answer to your question, personally I think that getting off sugar is the most important thing. I’d concentrate on that for now and do some reading on Primal/Paleo if you’re interested. Nora’s book is very convincing! I need some more recipes though – Sarah? eBook??
January 2nd, 2012 at 11:33 pm
I recommend giving up one thing at a time. Gently, gently. Also its good to make one change at a time then wait a month at least, and see how you feel. Every body is quite different and self experimentation is by far the best way to guage what diet works for you.
That said, I personally find it easier to not eat sugar when also eating low carb. Low carb means stable blood sugar for me, which means less sugar cravings!
January 4th, 2012 at 4:27 am
Thanks, Hannah, for your comment! You said exactly, what I was wondering, too!
The massive “LCHF trend” has really confused me and I find it hard to get the difference between different types of carbohydrates… And when adding to this all the talk about low and high GI carbohydrates… Confusing!
Still, the LCHF seems too strict to me, so I am going to stick to Sarah’s principles in general. Just have to do some studying first!
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Should I stay away from any other kind of sweeteners as well throughout the 8 weeks or is it ok to use stevia/xylitol/splenda?
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January 2nd, 2012 at 5:17 pm
It seems that Stevia is the safest and best sweetener around. I’ve only tried Natvia so far. I do find however that including non-fructose/low carb sweeteners in my diet can cause me to seek out ‘real’ sweet things… I didn’t use any sweeteners when I got off sugar last feb and I think that made the transition easier. But that’s just me!
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I’m starting tomorrow! I have read the book, but am doing so again today. Thank you for such a simple way of life. It seems like we should all know this already! I have been “no white” bread, pasta, rice or flour for about 8 weeks now… have lost weight already! I seem to have stalled so looked at the sugar I was eating… WAY TOO MUCH! I have your book and follow your helpful tips on twitter. I am looking forward to being the healthier version of myself!!
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I planned on starting today but I failed and ate chocolate this afternoon! I managed 3 weeks without sugar in October but since then I have been eating much larger amounts than I was eating before, so something has to change immediately- I guess it is time for me to re-read your book!
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January 2nd, 2012 at 2:42 pm
I had chocolate today too. But no need to start tomorrow, we can start right now! Fall seven times, get up eight.
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January 3rd, 2012 at 2:41 pm
This first week is about easing in. You have a leave pass!
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Happy New Year!
I purchased and read the booklet late last year with the idea that the new year will kick off with a healthy eating + exercise plan. I’ve made the gradual shift to the Paleo diet (being gluten intolerant and an IBS sufferer, high protein always works best for me), have dropped the intake of the refined carbs and have found this shift extremely helpful. LOVE the idea of being sugar free (alcohol will be the hardest to give up) and appreciate Sarah offering up the challenge to all and sundry willing to give it a go – one week at a time.
Looking forward to weekly updates and support! Thanks, L.
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January 3rd, 2012 at 2:42 pm
Linda, you might like this news: alcohol – in small amounts – is ok. That is, wine and white spirits.
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Would love some information on how to do it when you have fructose issues and lactose issues. I have read your book and it says not for fructose malabsorbers…. I know I need to cut out sugar. Have also read DG book but can’t find will to do it.
I will have another go! 
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January 3rd, 2012 at 10:12 am
I’m a fructose/lactose/fat malabsorpber (lucky me) and I’ve found the best thing is no dairy except for a little butter, a tiny amount of fructose safe fruit eg blueberries and NO sugar. I quit sugar on Boxing Day and it has made a HUGE difference already. I also try to eat a paleo diet as much as possible. Check out “the clothes make the girl” website. Mel has great recipes and interesting posts about all sorts of things.
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January 8th, 2012 at 9:37 pm
Thanks Ms Jane…will do!
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I’m so grateful that you have offered up this support system. I quit with you back in February when life was all lookin rather peachy and I never felt better. But as many have said 2011 was haarrd! I suffered anxiety and depression, and sugar came back as my crutch to survive a really tough year. 2012 is the year that I want to find my wellness again too, and for that to happen I need to let go of sugar as my soother. I’d love it if you post some suggestions for the lactose intolerant quitters. I found many of the suggestions in the book centered around dairy. Oh my how I’d love some haloumi!
Best of luck everyone. Here’s to finding the sweetness outside of sugar!
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Bring it on!!
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Do I have to eat animal protein to quit sugar the way you suggest? If not, I’m in!
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January 3rd, 2012 at 2:44 pm
You don’t have to do anything! There are lots of vegan options – a lot of my snack ideas are based around nuts and coconuts
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January 6th, 2012 at 12:11 pm
I was wondering the same thing…just read “Forks Over Knives” and became determined to eliminate animal proteins (gonna miss my eggs!). This is why I usually run into trouble…I read a lot of theories, then get confused about what’s the real right approach. However, I know for sure that when I eliminated sugar on a detox program a few months ago, I felt my best and got so many compliments on my healthy appearance! I know I have to stick to this approach…that’s why I’m here!!
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January 3rd, 2012 at 3:03 pm
I am not vegan, but have fallen in love with the Scandi Foodie blog that Sarah mentioned last year.
scandifoodie.blogspot.com/
There are so many brilliant sugar-free recipes that are also dairy/gluten/animal/grain-free.
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I’m starting tomorrow and have reduced my sugar intake since reading the book about 6 weeks ago. The problem I have is that I don’t need to lose weight (my BMI is already just normal borderline underweight) and am worried that this will make me lose weight. Also, I found if I had days that I didn’t eat any sugar I’d get the shakes, feeling faint. Not sure if this is withdrawal symptoms or just as I have normal/low blood pressure anyway?
Any suggestions to minimise these symptoms would be great!
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January 2nd, 2012 at 5:36 pm
Since I was about 16 I’ve had the shakes, feeling faint & dizzy if I didn’t eat on time or often enough, so I figured that’s just the way I’m built. But I gave up sugar for 4 weeks last year and one thing I did notice was that these episodes were now completely absent (after the first 2-3 days). Maybe for you it’s a medical issue or something more serious, but for me it turns out that the shaking, dizziness, etc, is related to the highs and lows of sugar consumption. This is one the reasons I’m going to quit sugar with everyone else this time around, so you might be pleasantly surprised (barring any low blood pressure isses etc)!
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January 3rd, 2012 at 3:01 pm
Hey Katrina,
You might actually have low-blood pressure or low-salt levels. I used to get the same thing and would eat lollies to bring my sugar levels back up. However, I’ve since found that my blood pressure is low, as are my salt levels.
The problem is easily fixed: salt everything you eat (assuming it does not have too much added salt already) and eat more fat.
I’ve found that my dizziness/faintness has improved since becoming sugar free.
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March 7th, 2012 at 3:41 am
I have been free of processed sugar, grains, potatoes, rice, etc. since Oct 29 2011 and I definitely feel 100% better. I eat fresh and dried fruit and I also eat LARA bars, which have no added sugar. I find I really, really miss chocolate. I also think I have been eating too much “natural” sugar in the form of fruit, especially dried fruit, and have been thinking about cutting back. I’ve always had the same symptoms as you that I have put down to blood sugar highs and lows – especially since when I cut out sugar and carbs, those highs and lows and cold sweats associated with “having to eat something immediately” completely go away. In fact, one big motivation for me to cut out sugar has been a real concern that I could develop diabetes; I also was told I had pretty high cholesterol prior to giving up sugar, but two weeks ago got my cholesterol tested again and it’s within normal limits! Sugar is really bad for the human body and I’m so glad I found this site. I’m hopeful that it will help me stay encouraged to stick with the plan and even cut back on the sugary fruits.
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And I have just see easter eggs in Coles…my absolute weakness. This will test my willpower.
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I’m doing the no sugar thing, and I find it very easy, the fat takes away all food cravings for me..which is great for an overeater! I’m also going mainly grain free and I’m wondering about Polenta? Being corn it’s not really a grain, but I’m wondering what your take on it is? Also are lunch meats like salami and ham ok to have? Do you still eat legumes? And what brand of coconut oil do you use? The ones I’ve seen are really expensive.
Thanks Sarah.
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I went sugar free for 8 weeks last May and felt so much better, but as time went on I started to eat a little bit then it was an avalanche and this Christmas I have been very bingey. If I felt so wonderful sugar free why did I go back? Some people say you won’t want to go back and I didn’t but now I find myself back at square one feeling yuk. Will give this another go.
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January 2nd, 2012 at 8:46 pm
Yeah, it’s weird how you feel great when you don’t eat sugar, but then still go back to it like a moth to a flame, even though you know for sure it makes you feel crap!
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During the holidays I made salted carmel sauce for the very first time … and as I stood stirring the butter and cream into the 1 cup of sugar I thought about Sarah’s ebook that I had purchased but not yet read … and a feeling of total dread and sadness came over me as I thought about not being able to eat all the sugary things around the holidays. This was a wake up call to me – I know that I am a total addict!!!!!! I wish us all patience with ourselves however we choose to go about getting this nasty stuff out of our bodies. Happy New Year to you all!!!
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I’m in!
I’ve read your e-book and started the program last year. I managed a week and then it was Christmas and New Year and I regressed. But in that week I started to feel clearer in the head and was sleeping better after only a few days. Am looking forward to following it through this time and feeling that clear head again
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just saying hi – was sugar free pre xmas – had me emotional linked xmas treats – now back on the wagon – cheers le
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I bought this e book a few days ago and also I am reading sweet poison. I am doing the slow approach as indicated in week one in your book. I have a question about fruit and bread when I go to week 3 which is cold turkey phase. What fruit and bread can I have. And does the nuts have to be unsalted etc.
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I am really wanting this and dreading it at the same time. I really LOVE Sarah’s comment about letting go of the need to be soothed, and being conscious about this emotional attachment. I am happy for the support of this group of people. I have just completed Michelle Bridges 12WBT and am feeling back on track with my nutrition (it was brilliant, can’t recommend it highly enough). Sugar is the next step….
One question, I’d like to know a bit about coffee too. I seem to have a coffee-sugar link. Coffee bloats me and I don’t always like it but have a real “soothe-support” relationship with it. I have dropped my one sugar and am ok without a cookie on the side these days, but wondering if I am setting myself and my family up for serious “cranky mummy” if I give up both together! Any suggestions welcome
Also, if anyone has had sugar addicted children and helped release them from this, I’d be happy to receive any suggestions
Thanks guys…. Let’s do this (she says with trepidation!)
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January 10th, 2012 at 3:39 pm
Hey Sophie,
I’d love to know more about Michelle Bridges 12WBT, I have a friend who’s signed up, and I’ve been thinking about it. I already got to a dietician and have a personal trainer at a gym so just wanting to know more about the program and what it offers?
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I”m in. This all makes such sense. I am wondering if it also is why my 24yo son has had so many ailments last year despite being fit and lean. He loves his sugar in sports drinks etc.
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January 3rd, 2012 at 3:39 pm
It might be something unrelated to sugar, but those sports drinks are so bad.
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I gave up in mid November after reading Sweet Poison but Christmas got the better of me. I’m all set to start again.
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[...] and oatmeal to try and replace that but I’ll need more than that. I was thinking of buying Sarah Wilson’s eBook on how to quit sugar. But I’m reluctant to buy into another gimmick. I might just replace the [...]
Any suggestions on how to appease the PMS monster without chocolate? I reckon I could literally eat a whole cake right now, if I weren’t restraining myself.
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January 3rd, 2012 at 10:19 am
Me too!! I make a paleo-style fudge thingy (!) which is basically nuts (last time I used macadamias, pecans, sunflower seeds) shredded coconut, a giant tablespoon of almond butter, a few big scoops coconut oil, some almond meal, raw cacao powder and some stevia (if you want). Last time I also added a little vanilla essence. I squish it all together and then flatten in a lined baking tray and then pop it in the fridge. You can then just break it up into bits and scoff. My kids love it too. Sorry I can’t be more specific with measurements but I just chuck it all in!
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January 3rd, 2012 at 2:58 pm
Yum!!! I’m going to make that for dessert tonight.
Thanks for the brilliant recipe!
XX
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January 3rd, 2012 at 9:44 pm
YUM!
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Hi,
I was wondering if taking/using Schuessler salts interferes with quitting sugar. Because where I live (Germany) sugar is the carrier substance used for Schuessler salts. Or do you think the amount of sugar is rather small and won’t do no harm.
Thanks.
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January 3rd, 2012 at 2:50 pm
I’ve just taken a look at my salts (also avail here) and it says they’re in a lactose base. Lactose is a sugar, but contains no fructose, so is fine (so long as you’re not lactose intolerant)
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Thanks Sarah. I have your ebook and love it. I quit last October and the approach totally works. Unfortunately I fell of the wagon at christmas time and have been suffering accordingly. Am looking forward to getting back on and reaping the benefits.
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Hi Sarah,
I have your ebook and tried last to quit sugar last year but failed. Now is the perfect time to start again as i get married 8 weeks tomorrow. Looking forward to really giving it my all, thanks for all your support and encouragement Happy New Year! Han xx
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Hi Sarah!
So I guess, I’ll have to do some studying…
I thank you for your e-book! It is great! I am so excited about the new challenge and can’t wait to get my diet right!
There are stll some questions, I’m confused about…
1) WHY is fructose worse than glucose for you? I haven’t read all of your book yet, but in the beginning you were explaining the bad effects about fructose, but not much about glucose…
2) You seem to be using bread even though you are cutting down sugar consumption. Why have you decided to keep some carbohydrates in your diet but others not? What kind of bread do you prefer? How about potatoes, rice and pasta…?
I know, my confusion arouses from all the different diets (not only your book!) and recommendations,and lack of knowledge…
I’ll still appreciate it, if you’ll have time to clarify these basic things!!
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January 3rd, 2012 at 8:46 am
David Gillespie expalins the glucose/fructose thing really well in his Sweet Poison book. I read this first and that’s what prompted me to read Sarah’s e-book.
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January 3rd, 2012 at 10:19 am
Glucose is what your body needs to work! Even meat turns into glucose in the body. Go here: http://www.thenile.com.au/books/David-Gillespie/Sweet-Poison/9780670072477/
There is a preview of the book and you get to read a bit about the glucose-fructose etc.
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January 4th, 2012 at 4:12 am
Thank you for you advice, Lyn and Laura!
Thanks Sarah, this is just the kick start I need. I quit sugar late last year for about a month and felt amazing! But then slowly got on to the slippery slope of sugar addiction!
I want to kick this sugar habit once and for all and am hoping the support in this website will help me do so.
Is there any chance you can post a guide as to how much fat you needed in your diet to replace the sugar? Last time, I felt as if I was eating too much and put on weight, but when I still craved sugar and got hungry, people suggested I needed to eat more!
Thanks for your help in guiding us all into greater wellbeing,
Hayley
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I’m on day 3 and my skin is breaking out and I am having headaches! Is this normal? Probably my body is in shock and is detoxing!
I have read your book Sarah and am now reading SWEET POISON…and I must say the thought of sugar isn’t so appealing after reading some of this!
Keep going everyone, we can do this!
Shell
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January 3rd, 2012 at 9:28 pm
My friend had the same symptoms when he stopped drinking coke everyday. Maybe withdrawal symptoms?
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January 5th, 2012 at 10:10 pm
Hi Shell,
Day 3 for me and the same symptoms, so yes I guess it’s normal. Although I am feeling better in general already, so it’s onwards & upwards for me.
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Started a week ago and have “cut-down” but not eliminated all yet. Don’t see much of a difference in the way I feel yet but I am really really missing my fruit!! I love fruit!!
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Same problem here – managed to stay off it for 30 days and once I went back its been binge city ever since! Wish it wasn’t so hard to quit, would love to do it again and NOT go back!
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Well my Husband and I are in ! We did a grocery shop yesterday and WOW, our trolley was SO healthy ! Yet I was surprised at how much sugar we were consuming even though I thought I was strict on our sugar consumption. It’s all the hidden sugars that now truly frighten me. Our 21mo daughter & 4yo son are not big sugar consumers, neither eat lollies or have soft drinks only chocolate occassionally but over Xmas our son ate too much chocolate, cake and general junk and his attitude for the last fortnight has sucked. Moody, whinging and crying when he doesn’t get his own way, so yesterday I explained to him that the reason for his crankiness was too much sugar. At the Supermarket he kept asking for stuff (sugar laden of course, thanks to the power of the media) and I said “no mate, too much sugar and it makes you cranky remember”. He accepted it and moved on happily. So thanks Sarah & David because knowledge is power. Bring on being Sugar Free !!!
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I was wondering if someone could help me with these questions:
Is it ok to your coconut or date sugar?
What about canned pumpkin (pureed) or even pureeing your own pumpkin? I usually have Sugar free almond milk and rolled oats for breakfast with some pumpkin puree and cinnamon.
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January 3rd, 2012 at 10:23 am
I would say no to the coconut and date sugar. Way too much fructose which is what we’re trying to avoid. The puree should be fine but just check it’s not full of added sugar. Might be better off making your own.
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January 3rd, 2012 at 3:05 pm
N, I’ve blogged about coconut sugar. It’s basically palm sugar. And is full of fructose. The pumpkin puree is a super idea. Just check the canned stuff isn’t sweetened.
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January 3rd, 2012 at 4:00 pm
Hi Sarah and Ms Jane,
Re the pumpkin puree, I know making your own is better but not always able to be done. The one I get says ingredients: Pumpkin. That’s it so I guess no added sugar there.
I forgot to add I usually add a drizzle of brown rice syrup as well to my breakfast. Is brown rice syrup ok?
As for the Coconut sugar DAMN lol I just bought a whole pack thinking it was good, the reason was was because I was reading on The Healthy Home Economist that it’s a good sugar substitute.
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January 3rd, 2012 at 9:30 pm
I use brown rice syrup on my breakfast too. It has no fructose, just glucose
I am starting today ! can’t wait . Thanks for creating this program. x
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I am giving this a go again. Goodbye ice cream….thanks for the support Sarah
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I’ve had the book for a while but haven’t taken the step. I don’t have that much sugar but I think it’s time to give it a go. Good luck everyone
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I am about to reach week 6 of no sugar! Hey, it might be my third attempt at it, but it feels really good to be able to say I have stayed strong for this long! It hasn’t been as hard as I thought it would be, and I think it comes down to my understanding of what sugar actually does to your body. After reading Sarah’s e-book I then read Sweet Poison, so my ability to quit sugar doesn’t come from a place of motivation to lose weight or to fight not eating something that I really want. It comes from a place of knowing that I don’t want that toxic stuff inside my body, which is a really amazing thing for me as I have been weight loss obssessed my whole life.
I have never actually considered myself an emotional eater, but now that sugar is no longer in my life I have been able to acknowledge and recognise how much I relied on sugar to sooth and comfort, rather than face things in life!
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Hi Sarah, I’m in the process of ‘quitting sugar’ having bought and read your Ebook + DG ‘SP Quit Plan’, but I am really struggling with the sugar cravings I have, especially after a main meal.
I’m not a huge fan of nuts (I don’t find them satisfying) so I’m searching for a substitute to the icecream/chocolate/sugar laden yoghurt etc that I would normally reach for. I also tend to want something sweet and sugary if I’m feeling ‘a bit down in the dumps.’ Why does this happen? Sometimes the driving force is that strong that I ‘lose complete control’ and scoff down as much sweet stuff that I can fit in. It’s quite overwhelming (& disgusting) and its not until I finish the binge that I am horrified that I just did this without a care at the time!!?? This is why I’m quitting sugar, but it’s hard and would love to know of some ‘treats that I can still have that are ok to help get me though the cravings??? Thanks so much, Judy
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January 3rd, 2012 at 12:56 pm
A can of frozen coconut cream topped with crushed strawberries is and awesome sweet treat when you feel like binging on the sweet stuff! better than ice cream!
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January 3rd, 2012 at 2:56 pm
That sounds amazing! Will have to try this week.
XX
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January 3rd, 2012 at 2:56 pm
I always crave something sweet after my main meal too (especially dinner)! I love nuts, but the following have also worked for me:
- Rice porridge with cinnamon.
Cook rice (brown/white/whatever) in full-fat milk and cinnamon for about 15 minutes until it turns into a lovely porridge.
- Greek Yoghurt with a few raspberries
- Coffee with full-fat milk (I have a Nespresso machine, and they do sugar-free flavoured coffees like chocolate and cherry. They are awesome!)
- Sweet herbal teas with/without milk. I’m not sure about what’s available in Australia any more, but in the UK I love Pukka tea and Yogi teas
- It sounds strange, but I love some roasted sweet potato after a meal. It’s really satisfying, especially in the winter
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January 3rd, 2012 at 4:09 pm
I LOVE Yogi tea! I just moved to the U.S from Australia and discovered Yogi tea at our local Whole Foods store. Currently I am drinking the Stomach Ease and the Eygptian Licorice.
Also re: The roasted sweet potato, I love slicing sweet potato into rounds, brushing on some melted butter and sprinkling on some cinnamon then baking in the oven for 20mins each side. YUM!
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January 7th, 2012 at 11:57 pm
I just bought the Egyptian Licorice Yogi tea you recommended. It’s incredible!!
Thanks so much for the recommendation.
April 13th, 2012 at 3:07 pm
is this brown rice already cooked? or are you cooking it in the rice?
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Hi, I just saw your link on Facebook, I’m currently on Day 3, looking forward to all the support in the upcoming 8 weeks
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Thanks, I’m inspired!
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I have the ebook but not read it all. I have just read all the posts here and have been inspired to do something. I find if i cant do something all the way i just give up and not start at all. But there is a lot of help and support here. I should give it a go.
Thanks.
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I’ve gotten into the habit of chewing sugar free gum or a sugar free mint after meals, after coffee, before a meeting etc. What’s a good replacement that still gives that minty fresh satisfaction?
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January 3rd, 2012 at 9:43 pm
I always like to have a peppermint tea after meals to cleanse my palate and leave a fresh, minty taste! You could also chew some mint leaves if you don’t have time to drink a tea!
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I have been sugar-free for 4 weeks now and feeling amazing.
I had two planned lapses over Christmas:
1) I ate dessert on Christmas day. Sticky date pudding, though it was a tiny portion.
2) I had a fruit mince tart at my work Christmas function. I felt sick all afternoon and vomited when I got home.
I’m looking forward to carrying this into the New Year and improving my health even more! My grandfather died last year from complications caused by Type-2 diabetes. I am adamant that this will not happen to me!
My question: Any advice for being sugar-free AND making the husband happy? I live with a brilliant, sexy yet sugar/processed food addicted man who has been slightly annoyed since I stopped using sugar-laden stir fry sauces etc. in my cooking.
I think we need some “Sugar-Free hungry man” recipes!
Keep going everyone!
Katherine
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January 4th, 2012 at 10:31 pm
Agreed! I too live with a lovely man who likes to eat anything and everything! Although he has shown interest in the quit sugar thing (he is more of a savory taste anyway).
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January 4th, 2012 at 10:42 pm
Do you mean he HAS more of savory taste? Maybe it’s just the lack of sugar giving me a dirty mind!! LOL
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Hi Sarah, after reading your e-book and David’s book I have been sugar free for 2 days now and am going strong. Eating more fat makes you feel fuller and help with sugar cravings…the haloumi is such a treat,who needs sugar!
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Im in…..Christmas was just a setback. Looking forward to learning more to be a healthier happier me.
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I’m going to bail next Friday for 10 days where I will more then likely be drinking a lot of alcohol/cocktails etc, any tips and or advice on how to best stick to the non sugar plan.
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January 3rd, 2012 at 3:56 pm
white wine & soda water with vodka and fresh lime and soda water. yum!
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Thanks for the inspiration, Sarah. I’m on Day 2 and back at work, so feeling a little crazy trying to deal with afternoon sugary cravings…at the moment almonds are getting me through. Would love to get to a place where I don’t want something sweet at this time of day!
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Am without access to my copy of Sweet Poison at the moment but I’m just reading about ‘isomalt’ in your ebook Sarah (Page 26 for those playing along!). I’m currently snacking on ‘Double “D’ sugar free lollies (available in Priceline), thinking that when I need a sugar hit, this would be okay.
Reading your book though…it seems you have them in the same category as gum… so isomalt is bad?
Gosh I miss gum. And mints. I need a mint replacement for before meetings and kissing!
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I’m in. I’ve been eating the full fat Barambah and five:am organic yoghurts and noticed that the five:am Vanilla Bean (my fave) is full of sugar. SOB! Anyone got any reccos for a low/no sugar organic yoghurt that doesn’t taste like grass? Are the flavoured Barambah’s okay?
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January 3rd, 2012 at 9:36 pm
I had the same problem. The only one I’ve found is plain yoghurt, Greek or European style. I just add some rice syrup. I can’t have fruit, but if I could, I would just add some berries. You could add chopped nuts or something too
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Count me in!
I’m so addicted to sugar it’s scary… it’s affected my skin, hair, weight and I get terrible headaches and mood swings…. and then there’s the constant tiredness.
I have given it up for 20 days before and felt so much better, but then I walked past a cafe and the homemade cakes looked so good and before you knew it I was stuffing my face with three! (and then continued to stuff my face with sugar from there on….)
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Hi Sarah, thanks for the fantastic book and inspiration. Your recommendation to initially cut all sugar, including fruit, seems to be based on the idea that you need to recalibrate and until you have done so you may not be able to stop at, say, one kiwi fruit or a couple of squares of 85% chocolate. My question is this: what if you can? What if I could follow all the recommendations in your book but (prior to week 6 and beyond) still enjoy a piece of fruit or similar after dinner while my boyfriend hoes into his giant bowl of icecream? Am I just looking for a loophole?
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Hi everyone… can anyone suggest a salad dressing that is sugar-free? I love my salads but don’t seem content yet with just lemon juice and seasoning. Thanks all! Tanya
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January 3rd, 2012 at 8:48 pm
Try oil on your salads eg. olive or macadamia oil is delicious! Oil is also really helpful to your body in absorbing all the nutrients in veg. So oil on salad, butter on cooked veggies etc enjoy experimenting!
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January 3rd, 2012 at 9:00 pm
Thanks Jo!
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January 4th, 2012 at 12:42 am
The fats also help with digesting raw salads. I dont tolerate raw veg without some fat. I like to dress my salads with a good quality olive oil and some raw apple cider vinegar. For a creamier dressing I put the oil, ACV (or lemon juice) and avocado and salt and pepper in a blender.
January 5th, 2012 at 3:05 pm
You can also add a little soy sauce/ Tamari to your dressing to give you a bit of flavour. I often do a mix of 3:1 – 3 (whatever measurement you like) parts oil, 1 part vinegar/ lemon juice, 1 part soy sauce/ Tamari.
Also, a bit of full fat mayo is great too. You could also put a dollop of hummos on your salad too, I find that quite lovely.
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January 5th, 2012 at 7:32 pm
Thanks Erin… After going through every dressing in the supermarket I found the Paul Newman’s Own Classic Caesar dressing had less than 1g sugar per serving & it tastes great!
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January 5th, 2012 at 8:25 pm
I Had that dressing on my giant Bacon salad tonight!
Hi Sarah. I’ve been sugar free for 11 weeks. Thanks to you I am no longer an emotional eater, am enjoying a healthy varied diet and am even cooking again (having lived on takeaway for years). I found the first 4 weeks tough. I went ‘cold turkey’ and during the first month there were times when I felt like mugging people at work for their fruit salad. And my skin broke out for the first time in 15 years. However now that stage has passed, I don’t really think about sugar and my taste has changed dramatically. On the odd night that I feel like something sweet after dinner, I have a glass of milk or a handful of blueberries with a dash of cream. I feel FANTASTIC! Thank you so much.
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January 4th, 2012 at 12:35 pm
How inspiring! I’m day 3 and am determined to keep it up. I love hearing success stories, they really motivate me!
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Over the past month, I discovered that I have a gluten sensitivity, so that has significantly cut my sugar and carbs over the holidays. I have not had much other than some stuff cooking at home. I read your book and have wanted to get off sugar for a while. I did it for a year in high school. Is it ok to have some starches in your diet in the first 8 weeks? How about stevia. For example, I baked gluten free/sugar free oat flour blueberry muffins? Probably a no in the first 8 weeks, but maybe an occasional thing after? Just wanted a little more clarification when it comes to carbs/starches. Just want an idea when it comes to options going out to eat.
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[...] boy did I need this time to myself because Sarah Wilson’s I Quit Sugar: An 8 Week Program starts today. I’ve been working my way through Sugar Busters! for the past month, but it is [...]
I’m in!! Loving the book!!
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Read the book, undertaking the experiment and it’s Day 9! Sleeping better – no longer waking up all puffy and feeling like I haven’t slept! More energy… just need to turn that into some exercise lol! and I’ll be set.
Question: I am looking for some more snack suggestions please. Nuts, rice crackers with almond paste and teas are all great but need more variety to keep the experiment ticking along (past experience – variety is the key!) Tx all. Look forward to seeing how “we” all go!
Cheers.
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Hi, just want to check, is almond paste the same as almond butter? I’m in the US and can get fresh ground from whole foods. Also, rice crackers not rice cakes isn’t it?
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January 4th, 2012 at 12:50 pm
Hi Sharon,
Almond paster or almond spread. I would think almond butter may be different ?? Rice cracker and rice cakes are 2 different things. I put almond paste/spread on either. Crackers are smaller and traditionally used with dips, rice cakes are larger and look like rice bubbles all stuck together! Hope that makes sense….
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January 4th, 2012 at 12:58 pm
Perfect sense, I’ll have to check the almond thing out, I love almond but it can get a tad moorish. I know rice crackers just needed to check I was thinking the same. I can get the real food corn thins here which I love from home so I’ll just swap for a change. Thanks
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I love it! I’m so excited. I bought your book a while ago – and my sugar intake has reduced DRASTICALLY. I didn’t even eat much sugar (i didn’t think), but I cut out raisins and honey with my porridge (now i just drink coconut milk with some chia seeds and nuts), and I don’t binge on bananas and dates like they’re candy
Also, since arriving in Mexico we don’t have access to dark chocolate anymore – so dessert is just a small glass of full fat milk. It’s so good!
My biggest piece of advice that I can give to others is to start by going wild on the eating fats thing. Sure you’ll probably need to chill out on it a bit after a while, but at the beginning it helps make you feel like you’re not missing out on anything. Cause while everyone else is eating a tonne of sugar and fruit and skim milk – you can proudly reach for the cream and eat a tablespoon of almond butter and be like ‘what? this is awesome!’
good luck to everyone! i’m joining you also
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Hi, I just started the no sugar diet as well as no grains/or rice with my husband and daughter. My question is, can we have coconut milk? It has no sugar, but I noticed in the book it’s not mentioned as one of the 9 c’s ? Coconut water, but not milk? Also, can we have Plain greek yogurt? I see you mentioned plain yogurt several times, but it has some sugar in it. I’m excited to get off of sugar. and start feeling great!
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January 4th, 2012 at 4:55 pm
Yes we can have coconut milk and cream, Sarah has it in smoothies and frozen for dessert.
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January 4th, 2012 at 5:05 pm
And plain/natural greek yogurt with no added sugar in the ingredients is great!
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Hi Sarah – on day 1. I am hoping this will get rid of my brain fuzziness and constant fatigue (not to mention bloating and new tummy tire on otherwise good body). Had vegemite on toast for brekky and bbq chicken for lunch. Devouring almonds but not sure what else to eat. I’m a bit confused about bread and pasta. Can I eat them or is white bread out? Not sure best way to get my carbs. Thanks!
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On day 4 and so super excited!! feeling good and not a lot of detox symptoms. I posted somewhere along the line about getting some smoothie recipes. I was a big fan of all the fruit in type of smoothie, so curious on replacement ideas. I am guessing doing coconut/almond milk with …. ummm …. hahaha. Would love any ideas or tried recipes.
Good luck everyone and look forward to seeing how the next 8 weeks unfold.
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Hi guys!
I’ve just purchased and read the book.. I’m really keen and motivated to give this a shot!
Im overweight and have stomach issues and I think this will really help me.
Just had a couple of questions;
1. I am vegetarian and just wondering a few ideas of lunch and dinner meals that would be great options? That dont involve costly ingredients.
2. I’m a little confused with the carbs thing – is it ok to still eat breads/rice? Or should I be easing off these also? Or switching to a wholegrain variety?
3. Still on the bread thing – im a big fan of toast with vegemite for breakfast. The vegemite keeps my iron levels at an ok level for me. Should I be switching to wholemeal
wholegrain type or something else?
4. And to clarify (i am a lil tired and maybe should just read the book again) this is about quitting any and all type of sugar for 8 weeks not just sugar containing fructose?
Any and all help would be appreciated! Especially advise on snacks and foods that can be easily made for a busy office environment!
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Hi! I’ve been sugar free since the new year and absolutely loving it! I am combining it with my weight loss plan as well as going all out on the healthy fats is not possible right now. So far, am loving the results and feeling entirely less bloated, no longer fridge foraging for sweet treats or constantly thinking about when I am going to get my next sugar high (if that sounds a little junkie, good! because that’s exactly how it felt like!)
But I did have one question about the brown rice syrup someone commented on earlier. I love baking, specifically sweet things, and used to do a lot of it. Does anyone know if rice syrup can substitute for normal sugar in baking recipes? I know baking sweet treats like this probably goes against the concept of avoiding sugar and psychologically I’m just trying to find a way of still getting that comforting from mum but still… I am naturally curious about food and would love to know if anyone has tried to do this what kind of results you got.
thanks in advance and good luck to everyone!
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January 6th, 2012 at 3:37 am
Hi Tali,
I noticed you asked about whether you can substitute brown rice syrup for sugar in baking, and the answer is yes. Well at least that is what my jar of brown rice syrup says! –
‘To substitute sugar, us 1+1/4 cup rice syrup for every cup of sugar, using 1/4 cup less of another liquid needed in recipe.’
Hope that helps!
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January 6th, 2012 at 5:32 am
Hi N – that is utterly awesome! and means that if I absolutely must have something sweet and need to satisfy an urge to bake, I can attempt to make my homemade marshmallows and turkish delight
No idea what they will taste like but they will definitely be fructose free! Thank you so much!
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January 6th, 2012 at 5:45 am
No worries! I have made sweet crepes using the brown rice syrup before in place of sugar and they turned out well! Try it out and see how you go
Hi, I have been sugar free since new years as well and feeling great! I only have one problem, I crave salty foods now instead like chips, popcorn, bread and so on. I have actually gained weight since I quit sugar which makes me really nervous. Does anyone know what to do about this?
Thankful for any help!
Sofia
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Hi Sarah, I thought I had it all worked out, but reading all the posts has confused me slightly again!
Are we giving up ALL sugar for 8 weeks? (not just fructose)
Can we use ‘ok’ sweeteners? (ie DG SP quit plan)
Can we use dextrose & glucose syrup now? (again, ok in SP Quit Plan)
Are carbs ok, which ones & what to avoid?
I’m following your ebook and combining David’s ‘Sweet Poison Quit Plan’ advice also. Is this ok?
Thanks for your clarification,
Cheers, Jude
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Hi Sarah & Everyone Else,
I’m getting into the IQS thing, which is actually ok for me – I’ve discovered most of my sugar was incidental in sauces & snacks etc (it’s good to have the motivation to give up the snack sized choccie at 3pm!).
I’d been cutting back abit on carbs already to help with feeling cleaner and as a result having a full on smoothie for brekkie, made on Oat Milk (low in sugar, I checked!), raspberries/blueberries, chia, LSA, cinnamon, raw egg, plain yoghurt, and a banana. My question is – how do I substitute the bulk and sweetness of the banana out? I’ve tried it without, but it tastes pretty blurgh without it in – suggestions please!!
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January 5th, 2012 at 12:03 pm
Hmm…how about coconut cream or coconut milk?
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January 5th, 2012 at 1:21 pm
Good idea – a couple of tablespoons of frozen coconut cream could work!
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January 5th, 2012 at 6:13 pm
Yep coconut cream is great in smoothies. I also add some protein powder (I personally use a pea protein powder because I’m dairy free). A few drops of stevia can help to sweeten.
hi there – i’m slowly getting better at less sugar (after many failed attempts at going cold turkey I’m doing a steady reduction and plan to try cold turkey again in a few weeks). Eggs have been a real saving grace for me – i’ve grown to love them after barely eating them for year.
I’m concerned about cholestrol. Can folks please tell me how many yolks they’d eat each week?
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January 5th, 2012 at 2:01 pm
Egg yolks have been shown to not increase cholesterol, that thinking was from the 70′s when they said no to eggs and prawns etc for people with high blood cholesterol. Dietary cholesterol (in foods) does not turn to cholesterol in the blood. Yolks are the healthiest part of the egg.
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March 7th, 2012 at 7:38 am
I have seen my cholesterol go from very high to within normal limits after giving up sugar and white carbs (potatoes, rice, grains, bread, corn). Your mileage may vary but I have heard many other people report the same experience.
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Hi Sarah and followers!
I am on day 3 of the program…feeling great physically but a little depressed! I am studying law and working on an assignment due tomorrow…I spend hours sitting at my desk reading/typing and used to always have lollies/chocolates on my desk as study snacks to lift my spirits and make studying more bearable! Really missing having these snacks today but treated myself to a full cream milk latte which has given me an energy hit and a bit of a sweet taste!
Hopefully this craving won’t last long – I just have to suck it up and remind myself of the benefits that I am already seeing/feeling! Reading Sarah’s ebook and following her blog is definitely keeping me motivated and committed. I am sure I would have caved by now and be eating a bowl of maltesers as I type… hehehe
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January 5th, 2012 at 2:46 pm
It’s amazing how quitting shows us our emotional attachment to sugar. I hope I don’t do the same to my kids that was obviously done to us as kids, sugar as a reward seem to lead to total dependence and comfort as an adult.
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Quick question – is Berocca okay? I do not recognise alot of the ingredients on the label and it does claim to be sugar free but it just tastes sooo sweet!
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January 6th, 2012 at 12:22 pm
I hope not, I like my berocca in the morning, I checked the ingredients as well and couldn’t see why I had to give it away
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Hi all – Day 2 – So…last night I had lamb cutlets with cos lettuce, fried haloumi (yum!) and..tomatoes (and a glass of white wine – almost impossible to give up). I felt really virtuous until I realised that tomatoes are a fruit aren’t they and I guess they are out too??
Today I had poached egg on toast for breakfast and tuna on rye crispbread for lunch. The Fazer Rye crisps only 1.4g sugar.
Maybe others could start posting their meals/snack suggestions so we could share ideas of what to cook or snack on. Good luck everybody!
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January 5th, 2012 at 7:36 pm
Hi KateS… my favourite brekky is poached eggs on wholemeal toast with Nuttlex Lite and vegemite.
I love the idea of people posting their meals/snacks so that you know it’s real. I find all the diet fads have such weird shopping lists I wouldn’t know where to find half the ingredients.
I’m finding this very long blog a little overwhelming and when I get an email to say there’s a new message I have to troll through this very long page. Sarah is there any way the link in your email can take you directly to that persons blog?
Cheers Tanya
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Hi Sarah, a couple of questions
You mention in the book that you wanted to lose weight, and the no sugar more fat is touted as a way to lose weight. I don’t need to lose weight now, but was wondering what your personal results were, did you lose the extra 10kg you mentioned?
I am also interested in soy sauce substitutes
Also, is it necessary or advisable (in your opinion) to cut all sweetness for the 8 weeks or do you think experimenting with glucose/dextrose is ok. Personally I feel drawn to lose all food sweetness for a bit (including stevia, glucose, fruit etc), then slowly reintroduce sweetness with a fresh palate but not sure… What do you think? What do others think?
Can you recommend a good full fat yoghurt? Is jalna good/bad?
I think that’s all for now, enjoying the experiment (although occasionally observing an inner sooky teenager!:-)
Sophie
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January 6th, 2012 at 8:35 am
I would imagine Jalna natural yoghurt is fine – it’s been a while since I’ve had it and can no longer get it here in Canada – but I know their flavoured yoghurts are all sweetened with fruit juice so a definite no-no.
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I am in too and am on Day 9 also. Feeling great and so light!
This is my second time at quitting sugar as Christmas was my undoing the last time. It seems a bit easier this time around though.
I noticed lots of posts above on people seeking sugar free snacks and wanted to direct people to a blog which I discovered through this blog called Super charged food. All of her food is Gluten, sugar, wheat, dairy and yeast free! And tastes so good!
http://www.superchargedfood.com/home#!__home
There is some great snacks here – home made GF bread, Spinach Bread (awesome with some hummos or Avo), mini fritattas, nut slice, blueberry muffins, etc.
If you are lucky enough to have her book there is also some other great snacks – almond and zuchinni loaf, cookies (made with cashew butter) – which Sarah blogged about previously.
http://scandifoodie.blogspot.com/- another great blog with the chick who writes it having done the IQS program! More great sugar free snacks on here too!
Anyway, hope this helps!
I am so excited to be doing this with so many people. It certainly helps with the motivation. xox
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I have been overweight for approximately ten years and am about to turn 30. I am hovering around my highest weight ever (104.5kgs) and I cannot cope with being this way any more.
The weight problems I have are no doubt due to compulsive overeating. Sadly, the drug of choice is usually sugar. Specifically, chocolate, ice cream, biscuits, and lollies. If there is a stash in the house, I will think about them constantly until I cave in and I will eat them. I will eat them all, and I will eat them in secret. If they are not there, I will drive long distances, spend lots of money and buy these things all for myself and gobble each and every morsel. It’s hideous. I can’t seem to stop it. I would love to be able to enjoy a piece of cake at birthdays, a dessert out at a nice restaurant as an occasional treat, to just stop at one mintie. But I cannot. I have never been able to control the urge to keep going, more and more and more until the whole packet is gone and there is nothing left but a stone in my stomach and a hole in my heart.
I have always believed that my inability to control this in myself was all about greediness and willpower. If I just had the willpower to stop at one freddo frog, or one biscuit then everything would be OK. But the more I read about sugar, and fructose, the more I believe that my inability to control my intake has more to do with biology and less to do with willpower. With what I have read about the impact of sugar on weight and health, combined with my own demonic inability to have sweet treats in moderation, I have come to believe that the best thing for me to do is break my addiction to sugar by not eating it at all.
At this point, I cannot say that I intend to give up sugar permanently and completely for the rest of my life. Right now, that seems very scary … which tells me a lot about how dependent I am on the comfort and “reward” that I have been getting from eating sugar. However, with the view that I will learn more as I go, and I am within my rights to change my opinions, beliefs, intentions and values as I see fit, right now I can commit to a couple of things;
1. I will follow Sarah Wilson’s 8 week Quit Sugar plan. I will take it seriously and commit fully.
2. I will endeavour to live a sugar free life, to the best of my ability, for 2012. I choose to allow 1-2 small pieces of fruit per day (after the 8 week “detox” period) as I believe that if the rest of my diet is sugar free, the fruit will not matter. If I lapse, I will not give up, I will refocus and just keep going. One bad day will not ruin my progress, but I must not allow one bad day to turn into a bad month, or a bad year. I do not want to be in the same position, in January 2013, feeling depressed about my weight.
3. I will “experiment gently” with the idea of giving up sugar on a long term basis.
Good luck all, I look forward to having some buddies on the journey xx
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January 5th, 2012 at 6:08 pm
You’ve been so honest with yourself Peckingbird. Well done. I think everyone here has similar issues with sugar’s addictiveness. I know it’s been my crack for years!! I’m on day 11 and it is getting much easier and I’m noticing some interesting changes already ie, much better sleep, concentration and moods. It’s worth giving up sugar for all that! xxx
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January 5th, 2012 at 9:58 pm
Wow! Brilliant post Peckingbird! Echoing everything that ms jane said – am only on day 5 and feel much more focused, much less bloated, feel no desire to go looking for sugar treats. Good luck to you!
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January 6th, 2012 at 8:33 am
Good luck to you too! If you need inspiration remember that David Gillespie who kicked this all of for a lot of people lost a lot of weight just by cutting out sugar. Someone remind me, was it 40kg?
I too have to commit to not letting small lapses derail the whole thing.
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[...] But out of the ones I did declare publically, the biggest and the scariest for me at this moment is the thought of quitting sugar. [...]
Day 4 for me and I have a shocking headache… sugar related?? Who knows?? I really didn’t think I had a big sugar addiction but I’m reading so many packaging labels thanks to Sarah that it could be making that tiny little bit of difference.
I have to agree with an earlier message too that my salt craving appears to have heightened!!
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Hey everyone
I’m training for my first marathon this year…. and am interested in hearing if anyone has any sugar-free substitutes for energy gels, to use on long runs??
Thanks!
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January 5th, 2012 at 9:54 pm
Anything that is just glucose I think? Or maltose or dextrose.
Something like this?
http://www.lucozadeshop.com/body-fuel-energy-tablets/03626.html
Its the only thing that comes to mind – but I am not super familiar with high performance foods so maybe wait a while and see if anyone else posts.
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Hows everyone dooing?
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Oh man, I’m one day in and I have so many questions.
Firstly, anyone got tips on a type of bread (not a brand, just a variety) that doesn’t have too much added sugar? I was having pumpernickel bread and bagels from the cafe on the way to work and now I hear it has molasses in it.
Ideas for snacks, I’ve read the ebook but some of the tips aren’t great for someone in an office. I’d love haloumi but have no way to cook it here. I’m worried I’m going to be pigging out on cheese and potato chips – they seem to be the only treat that distracts me from cookies. I love carrot sticks but I hear they’re a high sugar vege. Ideas for an office worker?
Also, do I need to be careful about tea bags, the chai tea bags I have at the moment do say ‘added natural flavours’ – should I be wary?
And on behalf of my boyfriend who is my reluctant IQS mate, what’s the situation with beer?
Phew. Let’s do this!
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January 6th, 2012 at 9:40 am
Hi there – can’t help with the bread but…
Snacks – peanut butter on rice cakes? in fact, peanut butter on anything. spanish pisto with crudites. hummous. cottage cheese. olives. nuts and seeds.
Chai – if its just flavours then i think they are ok. They would definitely have to state any sugar ingredients. Does the chai taste sweet when you don’t add anything to it? Chai should just taste of normal tea with a few added spices.
Beer has gluten which I think is out of bounds. Wait for someone else to back me up on that one!
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So I’ve noticed that some people are saying that gum is out for this BUT I have recently found a gum here in the US which has the following ingredients listed in it:
organic cane sugar, glucose, gum base (contains natural chicle), brown rice syrup, natural peppermint flavour, gum arabic, resinous glaze, beeswax, carnauba wax and chlorophyll.
Ok so I don’t know what all of these are but was wondering if it’s a no no because of the cane sugar?
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January 6th, 2012 at 9:35 am
Hi again! I would agree that the cane sugar is a no-no!
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January 6th, 2012 at 11:55 am
Hi thanks!
Would anyone have any suggestions on other ways to freshen breath when you’re out in place of gum? I understand you can have mint tea at home but can’t really do that when you’re out somewhere.
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January 6th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
Listerine strips? Not ideal but I am thinking of trying them cause I normally go the gum.
Hi everyone,
This has been such a great forum thus far and its only week 1. Can’t wait to see what will be coming in the following weeks.
I stopped the experiment last night (for one meal so I am NOT referring to it as falling off the wagon or berating myself about it – lol). I was out and indulged in a bit of the salad bar which involved some sauces/dressings on the salads – not alot mind you. A healthy option one would have previously thought and I also had a few Baileys and milk – a celebrationary b’day drink! Boy am I feeling the effects today. Bloated, puffy and not a good night sleep. Tired – which could be because its the end of a long week, but I don’t think so – it feels different and I’m now a little better at listening to my inner self.
So today the experiment is starting again. Quinoa breaky with chia seeds, flaxseed oil and a dolop or two of organic natural yogurt. Yummo!
Have a great day all.
R.
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Hi Sarah
I have started the IQS program this week. Currently I am on holidays til the 23rd Jan which makes eating well a lot easier. I am a sales rep so therefore on the road most of the day.
Is there anyway that you could cover some great lunch tips for what we could take to work understanding that it has to be pre-packaged from home? If anyone has any tips I would love to hear them.
I would endlessly appreciate this as during the day is always my downfall.
May the IQS force be with you all.
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January 6th, 2012 at 8:46 pm
Hey Dara,
Is it tricky because you’re in a car and can’t put your lunch in an office fridge? Why not use a little esky or cooler bag?
There are sooo many options. Left overs from the night before; slow cooked lamb with salad, marinated chicken with green salad and brown rice salad; quinoa salad, Cold stir fry; Zucchini slice; Frittata; Home made lasagna (maybe using eggplant instead of pasta sheets);
For snacks – nuts, full fat yoghurt, little non sugar baked items, almond butter (can find in supermarket ‘health food’ section); the fudgey-nut recipe posted above , some no sugar/low-ish carb dips with carrot sticks (that sounds so boring but if the dip is good and homemade they can be bloody delicious!)
My boyfriend makes a brilliant beetroot dip. Boil some beetroots (40mins to one hour, medium heat, leave skins ON) Peel beetroots once cooled. To a food processor, add roughly chopped beetroot, grated Parmesan (a fair bit), toasted pine nuts, olive oil, shirtloads of garlic plus salt and pepper. Adjust to taste. I often have to add a bit more salt.
I have often thought that if you had an on the road job it would be a challenge to eat healthily. I guess it’s one of those things that needs planning! Hope that helps a little
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January 7th, 2012 at 5:45 pm
Bridget
Thank you so much. Yep, it is the lack of fridge and any additional cooking facilities. I think you are right though, I will need to buy a small Esky.
The lunch ideas you have given me are perfect. Thank you again.
Oh, and the beetroot dip sounds divine
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January 9th, 2012 at 9:27 pm
Is beetroot high in sugar? Certainly tastes sweet like carrot?
Hi all, second time round on fructose free (fell well and truly off the wagon at Christmas) and determined to stick with it this time. Am having a slight mental battle with myself as an avid baker and dessert obsessive.
For work snacks, my husband takes the Carman’s fruit free museli bars recommended by David Gillespie in his Quit Plan. Also try making the sugar free choc nut balls that Sarah has made somewhere in her blog – I have made a version of them and they really do fill that hole when you are looking for something yummy for after dinner or with a coffee. I used xylitol in mine as the sweetener, seems to be one of the few sweeteners that doesn’t get a bad rap.
Perhaps you could also get rice crackers in individual packs? (not heavily flavoured ones – check nutrition info as they can be high in sugar)
Hubby used to have a beer every night after work – I’m sure there must be low sugar options available? – but now we both have a good stiff gin and diet tonic. Actually we were doing this before we quit sugar so thats no hardship!
As for bread – I buy the Artisan Sourdough Grain bread from the bakery section at Woolies. It doesn’t actually have a nutritional panel on it but I feel like I saw it recommended elsewhere as a good option? It is SO yum toasted, spread with butter and Vegimite or Cheesy bite…..mmm mmmm. (its unsliced so I slice it while its fresh, stick little bits of greaseproof between the slices, then freeze it in a ziplock. That way you can just take out one or two slices as you need them) Actually I’ll be a bit depressed if I find out its full of sugar…
Someone also mentioned about dinners – I made the Stephanie Alexander asian chicken salad with mint, and replaced palm sugar with Xylitol (on recommendation of my neighbour who is on an even stricter regime than me!) and it was delish. Not a huge hit with the kids though…
Good luck everyone, love hearing your stories, keeps me inspired…..
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January 8th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
Re Xylitol: I love Thai curries and have NEVER added sugar (palm or otherwise OR alternative sweeteners such as Xylitol/Stevia) to them. I tend to add loads of lime/lemon/fresh herbs and fish sauce. In fact, you might find the addition of extra herbs/garlic/ginger negates the need to add any sugar to your food at all. And I would think that your kids’ tastes will adjust. Having said that, I am overweight, hence my interest in a sugar free diet. I am also insistent that what I eat be healthy (no soy/canola/limited processed food) and prefer to eat organic when I can. I tried (organic) cocoa nibs for the first time today. I don’t think I will ever need to eat chocolate again. Brilliant!!!
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On the bread situation, we buy Taylor’s Wholemeal, which you can buy at most supermarkets. I can’t remember the exact stats, and I can’t seem to find any info on the internet, but I know that there is less than 4g sugar/100g. It is a very delicious bread, quite dense and grainy. We have been buying it for years, and I was chuffed to see that I can still eat it whilst on the IQS plan. Not suitable for those with gluten issues however.
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Hi, can someone please help me with coconut milk? When it’s mentioned here do you mean coconut milk that comes in a can or are you talking about a coconut milk beverage. I currently live in the US and I bought the beverage and wasn’t impressed so wanted to check if I should be using the canned milk instead. Thanks
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January 6th, 2012 at 1:18 pm
Yep coconut milk and cream from a can.
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January 6th, 2012 at 1:30 pm
Thanks, I’ll try that instead.
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Great!
I did the 8 week program (with a couple of slip ups early on) and finished it on 23rd December – just in time for the silly season.
I was planning to start again on the 3rd (first day back at work), and I did, but then our first peacharine tree fruited and I simply had to try one (I’ve been nurturing it for two years!). So now that’s set me back. I’m giving myself the weekend and starting again at week one on Monday.
Incidentally, I lost about 6 kilos in 8 weeks the first time around, and I think I’ve put on about 2 since stopping, so I am totally into the no sugar thing. It’s the easiest weight loss I’ve ever experienced and I have more energy for exercise.
Looking forward to taking the journey with a bunch of other people.
Thanks Sarah, I’ve found you very helpful already!
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January 6th, 2012 at 8:07 pm
That’s great to hear you did so well! Did you follow as suggested or modify? I’m still having trouble believing that I can eat full fat products and coconut milk and cheese and lose weight. I understand the whole concept, but a lot of the recipes mentioned on here seem to be quite high in calories. e.g coconut icecream. But perhaps there for people who are happy with their weight.
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People seem to be having a lot of trouble finding suitable snacks. I’m pretty much eating paleo/primal these days and when I first started I must have eaten a mountain of nuts but around the 3 week mark I stopped feeling hungry all the time and now I rarely snack. Try to eat more fat ie, coconut oil, avocado, eggs etc with your meals and you tend to need snacks less. If you are going to eat nuts eat macadamias. Dips are good too. There are lots of paleo recipe websites such as chowstalker or the foodee project with heaps of great recipes and snack ideas. I’m on day 12 of no sugar but am realising that I need to let go of coffee next. I love it but it doesn’t love me!
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January 6th, 2012 at 4:07 pm
I’m curious, ms jane … why only macadamias?
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January 7th, 2012 at 10:57 am
PB it’s cos they have more omega 3 than other nuts which is the good fat you are after. Also you only need to eat a few to fill you up as opposed to the mountain of other nuts. Hope you’re doing well xxx
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January 7th, 2012 at 2:18 pm
Cool, understand.
Thanks!
Well… after being well and truly addicted (I could eat a family block of Cadbury’s in one sitting)! I am proud to say I’ve been sugar free for 10 weeks! Thanks Sarah for your amazing book – I’d already read David Gillespie’s books and toyed with the idea of quitting sugar but it wasn’t until I read all of your practical tips that I felt I could really succeed!
Will definitely be lurking around over the next 8 weeks – the more tips and discussion the better!
I do have one question. Although you’ve said weight loss shouldn’t be the main focus, I am a bit disappointed I haven’t lost more (I’m about 3kgs lighter than I was but could benefit from losing another 7kg)! I’m wondering if it’s related to my carb intake as I have still been eating pasta, rice, breads and potatoes… I’m unsure, like a few others on the blog, if these count as sugar?
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January 6th, 2012 at 4:09 pm
Congratulations Mel on 10 weeks sugar free. An amazing achievement, and as someone who can also eat a whole block of chocolate in one go, I’m really inspired by your success.
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This may be a dumb question, but can you have sweet potatoes? How about carrots?
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January 7th, 2012 at 5:14 pm
Not carrots because they’re high in fructose. I’m not sure about the sweet potatoe.
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Hi Sarah, and all who give of themselves in this forum!
I am IN THIS! I had a period of time earlier this year when I was sugar-free, but I did not have this lovely group to turn to. I am excited to start again with the idea of FEELING better. I have fibromyalgia and really need to be better in taking care of my body.
I know I will drop some weight, but that really comes from some hard work at the gym in combination with the no-sugar stuff for me. You all have heard that SWEAT is really FAT CRYING, haven’t you? My sweat needs to flow more freely in the coming weeks. For now, I will take Sarah’s advice and ease into this.
Thanks for the support!
Kris
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January 10th, 2012 at 4:14 pm
LOL, Sweat is Fat crying!!! Love it, that’s a great visual for the gym workouts
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have been battling an (at times) pretty out of control binge eating disorder over the last few months and for the first time in a very long while i feel like a haze is slowly lifting….on day 2 of IQS and have been stuffing myself with bread…think i’m going to make this an IQ wheat as well.
without sugar around i am much more clearly able to differentiate between when i am reaching for/what food i am reaching for as a source of comfort and when i am eating to satisfy hunger. i always knew that wheat/gluten was addictive but very interesting to see how much more i am seeking it now that sugar is gone….
good luck everyone and happy healthy eating!
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Hi Sarah and everyone,
I have jsut finished reading the ebook and I want/need to do this for me and my family!! I’m sure my ‘sugar addiction’ contributes to my depression.
Can I begin tomorrow?
regards, Rechelle
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I can’t understand why you all are making it so complicated!
I gave up sugar (went ‘cold turkey’) 18 months ago after reading David Gillespie’s book ‘The Sweet Poison Diet Plan”.
I lost 8 kilos over about 6 months and haven’t looked back or regained the weight!
The most amazing thing for me is that I have totally lost my taste for sugar, which I am sure is a result of completely eliminating it from my life (except for several pieces of fruit per day, which seem to have no effect).
Over Christmas I found it no problem to say no to former favourites such as Christmas cake, pudding and chocolate as I had no ‘taste memory’ of them.
I am absolutely certain that if I was to try them again, I would be immediately hooked, but as long as I don’t, I can remain happily sugar-free for life.
JUST GIVE IT UP.
It’s the easiest way to ensure success once you get over the withdrawal symptoms (headaches in my case), which last about 2 weeks. It’s the best weight control system I’ve ever come across, as it requires absolutely no effort.
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Ok so I’ve been reading some of the comments people are making on the IQS facebook page regarding their sugar-free tips and I’m getting a bit confused.
1 – People are saying they are eating fruits instead – I was under the impression that fruit was out due to it’s sugar content. Are there any fruits that are allowed (I was thinking berries would be fine.) And bananas?
2 – Fruit juice? Again I was thinking a no no, even though I hardly ever drink fruit juice so I guess that doesn’t matter for me.
3 – Honey – Isn’t it full of fructose?
4 – What about things like dates? Other dried fruits? – again I was under the impression that these were out! But seems like people on the post are using them.
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You shouldn’t eat fruit of any kind for the full 8 weeks, then you can slowly add a few pieces in after that. No honey or agave either, but you can have stevia which is a natural sweetner.
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January 7th, 2012 at 2:47 am
Thanks for that Angie!
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I’m feeling pretty disheartened today – perhaps a withdrawal symptom? I have been reading all over the place and all the debunking and mixed messaging is getting me down. It seems to me that anyone can find a study backing up what they claim. Every study seems to prove a different food is the culprit for obesity or diabetes or heart disease or fear of ducks (okay, I made that one up).
Sigh.
I know the solution is to continue with this plan and if it works for me ignore the debate but gosh it’s confusing.
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January 7th, 2012 at 2:32 pm
Hi Kimbo,
I often feel this way too … Really overwhelmed by the number of opinions, studies, plans, lifestyles, diets and theories out there, all telling us that we need to avoid ‘x’ or ‘y’ or we’ll be obese diabetes sufferers with cancer and scurvy!
We’d all only be eating dust if we followed each and every bit of advice out there.
I have spent a god six months reading about sugar, and studies criticising David Gillespie’s perspective. I think was was looking for a reason, any reason, to avoid having to quit sugar altogether.
I’m still not 100 per cent convinced that sugar is the ONLY thing contributing to modern obesity, but I am 100 per cent sure that quitting sugar is not going to hurt me in any way. Unlike fats, protein, healthy carbohydrates … My body does not need sugar to survive and therefore I can experiment with giving up to see if it makes me feel better. And I strongly suspect it will.
But trust me, I know what you mean!
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January 7th, 2012 at 11:45 pm
Don’t feel overwhelmed!
Think about it as a learning journey for your health. Cut out sugar and see how you feel after 8 weeks. Lots of people have also been talking about cutting out gluten, so I plan to cut that out of my diet for a few weeks and see how I feel. If I feel better then I’ll try and eat less of it in general. If it makes no difference, then I’ll happily keep eating it regularly.
Same with dairy.
It’s just about listening to your body and being aware of how it responds. Try not to get too stressed about what everyone says.
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Ah, all the confusion!
I think you should do it how it works for you – giving it all up immediately may work for some, a more gentle gradual reduction may work for others.
For me, I’m doing the gradual thing and not stressing too much – I’m still having raspberries in my morning smoothie, and in the spirit of not being wasteful, if I’m cooking tea and a couple of teaspoons of sugar make it into the stirfry due to the sauce, well that’s fine. Once I’ve used up things in my pantry, I’ll be buying better alternatives.
I’m not however, eating the leftover christmas pud or chocolate sauce in the fridge, and the fact they are there and I’m not reaching for them is a good sign for me. At this stage I’m concentrating on sugar, not carbs like pasta and bread. I’m choosing wholegrain/wholemeal versions of these, and only eating them for one meal during the day. Paleo is not for me yet, one step at a time!
Sarah says a number of times to be gentle with the process, it’s building life habits and we need to all remember to listen to our bodies while we get off the sweet stuff!
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Hi Sarah,
Just have a question about the use of vanilla. In your ebook you talk about Vanilla Powder, which I want to try. I have always used natural vanilla extract which I thought was sugar free but reading David’s book has told me otherwise. He talks about the sugar content of other forms of vanilla flavouring (extract vs essence vs whole pod) but does not mention powder. Just wondering where it stands in relation to the others?
Many thanks,
Sunday
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Sarah just one wee question. As I’m fructose intolerant I can’t handle too much coconut milk because of the fructans. I know you say that coconut water is fructose free but in my research on the net I can’t seem to get a definitive answer. Some sites say yes some no. Any ideas? thanks xxx
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January 7th, 2012 at 8:16 pm
I ferment the water from coconuts.ots of health benefits. The body ecology diet website has good info.
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January 8th, 2012 at 8:47 am
I am finding it really difficult to find information on the fructose levels in the different coconut products.
As I understand it from the ebook the water, milk, flesh (dried or fresh) and oil have low levels of fructose although they do contain some. These all come from the actual fruit so any of the derivatives like coconut flour and creamed coconut is fine to eat.
Coconut sugar on the other hand is not as it comes from a different part of the coconut tree which does contain a lot of fructose.
Have I got it right?
Tali
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Wow, craziness, I just went to buy myself some yoghurt to try for breakfast. It has 8g of sugar in it! Each one I looked at had over that so I need to look further afield. Amazing what you find out once you start looking.
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January 7th, 2012 at 1:06 pm
I know. It says we can have plain greek yogurt, but all the plain greek yogurt I come across has 8g of sugar. Is there a certain brand in the U.S that someone can recommend?
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January 7th, 2012 at 1:12 pm
As long as your yoghurt is under 8g sugar per 100g you are fine.
Sarahs ebook says the first 4.7g of sugar is lactose which is fine. Anything on top of that is added sugar (pg 15).
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January 7th, 2012 at 1:22 pm
Ok, thanks, I should have checked the book.
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January 7th, 2012 at 1:27 pm
It says serving size is 200g at 8g sugar so I think I’m good
Last year I changed my diet to a gluten free pales diet. Recently I’ve been talking about cutting out sugar as I still kept sweets and champagne in my diet. A friend and I recently said sugar is more addictive than heroin. After reading your blog I’ve decided to make the change and remove sugar from my diet – I’m off to buy the book! Thanks for all your advice on your blog
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I started the program on New Years Day, but for someone who usually eats tonnes of cakes/biscuits/chocolates/fruit, I’m not really feeling as bad as you described I probably would.
I’m wondering if I’m doing something wrong? Am I supposed to be cutting out carbs as well? At the moment I’m still eating grainy bread and some pasta (but trying to eat more protein – cheese, nuts, meat, fish, eggs etc), is this allowed? I re-read the e-book, and it doesn’t seem to specifically mention not eating bread and pasta….
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January 7th, 2012 at 4:53 pm
Mmm,
It’s the same for me! I’m not feeling any different either and I quit on New Years Day too!
I also usually have a massive sugar/fructose intake which I have cut out however am still eating carbs ( don’t contain fructose). I keep wondering if I’m doing anything wrong?
I am sweetening a few things with glucose syrup to get me thru the cravings, but I thought gs was ok to have????? I guess I want it all to happen immediately, and it most likely doesn’t!!
Judy
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I’m wondering if anyone knows whether goji berries & acai powder is ok on this 2 mnth regime? Go well everyone
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Hi all…day 5. I am not having cravings as such but have had a headache for 3 days and feeling nauseous and bloated all day and like i have the flu. Is this withdrawal? I guess it must be.
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If you are after a sugar free cookie to make at home, the Butternut cookies that Sarah posted about a few weeks ago from the the Supercharged Food book are so amazing. I just made them! Sugar free and gluten free delights!
If you go the the ‘Tuesday Eats’ section they are first cab off the rank! So awesome! xox
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Are vanilla extract and vanilla powder ok to use?
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Eeeek! I have been helping to curb my cravings by using coconut flakes on my yoghurts, raspberries, kiwis etc….WARNING! I just happened to glance at the back of the packet and noticed the description ‘sweetened’ coconut flakes, so I looked to the ingredients and was horrified to see the second listed ingredient as SUGAR! I had already checked the nutrition panel and the sugars were incredibly high however I had it in my head that coconut flakes are fine! Hah! NOT! Beware of the brand you buy!
On a positive note, I’ve found what I hope is a yummy, safe yoghurt…. ‘Black Swan naturally sweet Greek style breakfast yoghurt’. Correct me if I’m wrong and although ‘low fat’ the sugars are low and in within the ‘sugar ok’ range? It’s gooood!
Cheers now, j
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I’m curious that in week one, we’re supposed to lay off of white grains / simple carbs, but when we fully quit in week 3, it’s ok to eat white grains / simple carbs?
Thanks!
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Is anyone else out there doing the detox in Berlin and want to go in on a massive order of Frusano chocolate with me? Orders over 60 euros get free shipping, so we can each order 10-20 chocolate bars and split it…
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Hi all – day 6 and headache and nausea has finally gone although my body still aching a bit. So hooray – there was a light at the end of the tunnel. And my stomach has gone down too. Oh yeah!
For breakfast I had plain oats (porridge) with mixed seeds (sunflower, pumpkin and sesame). By cooking it with half water and half coconut water it added a lovely sweetness – no sugar or honey required. Yum.
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Hi everyone,
I take berocca every single morning….any suggestions of any alternatives?
Don’t know how I’ll survive without it…
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January 10th, 2012 at 1:46 pm
Hi Jaz
I’m in the same space, no suggestions on alternatives, I’m just thinking of giving it up for the 8 weeks then slowly going back to it. The only other thing I was thinking was a teaspoon of vegemite for the vitamin B.
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Sarah, I’d love a bit more info on what to do once you’ve completed the 8 weeks. You talk in your ebook about reintroducing some things like fruit.
To me there seem to be two stages. Stage 01 try and do 8 weeks with no sugar and stage 02 reintroduce some things. Would love a bit more info on stage 02 – which is where I’m at.
In terms of weight loss, I’d also be interested to hear your thoughts on that. I’ve got 2 more kilos to lose.
I think what can happen is you say to yourself, I’m not having sugar so you justify having a plate full of hot chips – which I’m guessing is not the deal!
I suppose I’m trying to use the quit sugar experiment as a way to better understand what my body needs – what sorts of foods and of course portion sizes.
Any thoughts on any of this much appreciated!
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Hi Sarah,
I love your blog, and I bought the e-book a couple of months ago, but the thought of giving up sugar completely terrifies me silly! I know that I will feel better for it, but I’m still scared all the same.
I started on a healthier path in October 2011 with a visit to a dietician, since then I have been eating healthier meals, taking my own lunch and snacks to work and eating breakfast which has been a real change for me. I have also taken up dancing once a week and joined a gym! Because of all these changes I have been fortunate enough to head into 2012 15kgs lighter which has given me a real sense of achievement, I still have around 20kgs to lose, but I’m on track.
Thanks for being so honest and inspirational
April
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HI,
I’m in the US, and have never heard of some of the products you mention. I would like to buy the book, but hestitate because I do not know if the same products you suggest would be available. Do you think I can still benefit?
I also have Hashimoto’s. I love what I have read on your website.
Thanks,
Beth
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January 13th, 2012 at 3:26 am
Hi Beth,
I’m an American based in Germany and had the same concerns as you do, so I’m doing the research about where to find the products she recommends on her shopping list in the US and in Germany.
I am offering an American and German version of her shopping list as part of my affiliate bonus–that means, if you buy Sarah’s ebook through my link you get a copy of the shopping list for the US market (when I’m done! I’m still working on it) in addition to her book. In return, I get a commission from Sarah, but the price stays the same for you no matter where you buy it.
I would publish the information on my website as a public service, but it would not be fair to Sarah, since I find her shopping list an integral part of her book.
That said, you don’t need special products to quit sugar–I find the book quite useful on its own without the products.
Let me know directly if you have any questions.
Bettina
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January 13th, 2012 at 3:58 am
Hi Beth
I am Aussie living in Philly, looking at the shopping list there doesn’t appear to be anything you can’t get in the US. You may not be able to get the same brands but you just need to look for the items in the Supermarket. I do shop at Wholefoods mainly and I’ve been able to get what I need from there. It’s just taking me a little longer to shop as I am looking for things I don’t normally buy and checking the labels on everything.
Good luck
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January 13th, 2012 at 5:06 am
Hi Sharon,
I am in the Philly area also, and close to Whole Foods. Thanks for the quick reply!
Beth
January 13th, 2012 at 6:02 am
Not a problem, btw, I’ve bought their coconut milk and it is good, I get fage yoghurt, full fat……there are also some others on here are from the US so we may get ideas about products as well.
I’m on day 1 of week three and have put on 2 kilos!! I know weight loss isn’t meant to be the focus, but I don’t want to gain! This is the first time in my adult life I’ve introduced full fat into my diet- I used to cook with stock or water and be ultra vigilant about excluding fats from my diet, so it a Big and Scary Thing to be eating fats. I fell off the wagon twice and had a couple of pieces of chocolate but that wouldn’t result in a 2kg gain. I’m not eating any more in volume but obviously consuming more calories with the introduction of fat. I’ll have to start counting the nuts I’m having every day and down size my smoothies.
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Fat is good for you so dont be alarmed, your body is probably putting on the weight it has always wanted you to be! we all have a set wait, so enjoy the fat!
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[...] through Week 4 of Sarah Wilson’s I Quit Sugar program and I’m really starting to crave the delicious [...]
Hi – no credit card and have no clue what pay pal is – may i send you a postal order for the E book???
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[...] into Week 5 of the I Quit Sugar program, and apart from some incidental consumption (smoked ham? really?) we’re just not [...]
[...] Sarah Wilson – ‘the says’ – says sugar is the root of all evil and as you know when she’s ‘jump’, I’m like ‘how high?’. I don’t want to sound like we never walked on the moon but there’s a bunch of scientific types and conspiracy theories about why fat’s been given such a bad rap. Check it out. Basically paleo – eating like a caveman – is where it’s at. In the detox period, you replace sugar with fat – filling, delicious fat. Or in my case, filling, delicious halloumi, fried in the sandwich press at work. [...]
have started the program of quitting sugar but was wondering where breads, pasta and rice come into the eating plan, usually I use products that are made of spelt , is this okay and how much do you suggest?
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February 5th, 2012 at 4:20 pm
Hi Sharon, for this program it is the FRUCTOSE that is in just about everything, that we are addicted to and quitting! Start with this first, read the nutrition labels on products and don’t consume anything greater than 6 grams per 100gs or mls. No Fruit, honey.
Addiction to sugar aka fructose, the culprit. It is fine to have bread, pasta, rice etc for now, unless you want to cut carbs as well ( these do not contain fructose) however that is not part of the #IQS plan. Hope this helps.
Judy
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I am far from being a baker or a cook to say the least, but I just had a play around and baked the most delicious dessert/breakfast pudding/cake! I threw together full cream milk, butter, eggs, rolled oats, almond meal, natvia and a banana and baked for about 30 mins and it is delicious! I have had a little bit for dessert, but like I said it could be a very filling breakfast
so proud of my efforts! Keen to experiment with sugar free baking a but more now (and with a bit more planning as I only used what I had in my cupboard! Lol)
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Hello,
I have started the quit sugar program monday of this week (6th Feb). i’m not a massive sugar eater to begin with (aside from the way to frequent hazelnut gelato’s) but really wanted to take out all the hidden sugars from my diet!
I have a quick question regarding yoghurt. i love the brand barambah and was wondering if the passionfriut one was ok? it says it only has 4.7grams sugar (which is ok for a diary product- yesi have read your book) but it tastes really sweet? thoughts?
also as far as cutting out the friut (especially in week three) do you include tomatoes in this? AND what about carrot and beetroot? (they are sweeter veges) are they ok?
Thank you and i’m looking forward to taking this journey!
Karli-Jane
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February 12th, 2012 at 5:36 pm
Also is rice milk not good?
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Hi there, i recently bought the book and probably third way through but plan to finish by the wkend. Can i question whether brown rice, brown pasta, quinoa, sweet potato, celeriac are ok? I was hoping for a list of what is allowed and whats not recommended, but I think I can appreciate it would probably be a long list. When I am craving over the first few weeks, I expect I might loose inspiration and therefore a good strong extensive list of foods would be good for me. Ive looked at few websites but some mix low sugar or no added sugar foods in as well. Pls help. Im going to start in few days and at this moment very excited to see the benefits. thanks kate
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[...] here’s what a few people have shared with me. You might also want to take a scroll here and here for some comments and feedback, just to be sure it’s what you’re looking for. [...]
Hi there,
Thanks for the inspiration! I would like to know how long it will take for my energy to return after quitting sugar and when the aches and pain will disappear?Cheers Ryan.
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Is quitting sugar safe for those who are pregnant? I’m a bit worried about what effect the detoxing will have on an already confused body.
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I am on week two of quitting sugar. I have always had problems with my tummy and I must say I do feel better. I have a couple of questions though’;
1. I have just bought vital greens but on the back it says it is sweetend with Thautamin and natural vanilla and extracted from pineapple. I don’t know if this is good on the sugar free program? What are your thoughts? It also has added inulin which I had a problem with when doing the fodmaps diet and which david gillespie has said may be as bad as fructose in terms of the way the body processes it – what do you think?
2. I had some flavoured chips last night which had sugar (but only 0.9% per 100g) – is this acceptable as it is below the limits you set out in on your ebook? I am a verty all or nothing person and if I slip up like this I tend to think I have ruined the whole process – what are your guidelines for things like this?
Venessa
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I am having trouble giving up my morning cup of tea with 2 teaspoons of raw sugar in, can not start the day without it any suggestions I have tried stevia and don’t like the taste.
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July 13th, 2012 at 10:08 am
try Xylitol (health food stores). Its not cheap unfortunately but if you’re only using a little in coffee (i’m the same !) then it is the closest taste to sugar I have found : )
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Hi everyone. I’m starting the I quit sugar program today, though will join in on the program starting next week. I’m already feeling frantic knowing I can’t have sweet things. My addiction is so bad. Hope I can do it as I can’t bear being so hooked to sugar, I spend 50% of my time thinking of it!
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Day 1 for me and I am a scared!!
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Hi there,
I have not yet read the book but very interested as I am highly addicted to sugar.
What do you suggest when you go out for dinner?
or more importantly when you go to a friends house for dinner and there is dressing on the salad and sauce over meat etc?
Thanks so much
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Hi, I’ve been sugar free for 6 weeks. I haven’t lost any weight yet
Can anyone help with the reasons as to why??? My intake of food has dropped as I feel fuller much quicker so am puzzled. Thanks 
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Where can you buy your books in the US that is not in digital
Format?
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Hi Sarah
This is why I’ve made an absolut point of never offering sweets/chocolate to my 5 year old daughter as a treat/reward because I’ve had that association built into me and am showing it but I don’t want to pass this on to her. You know the fabulous and amazing thing – she gets excited by the thought of a chocolate or sweet, has one or two bites and then puts it down uninterested YAY!!! She thinks a treat is to go and find some cicada shells or flowers, or really gets excited by a punnet of raspberries – becuse they really are a special seasonal treat which she will happliy finish. So now that I seem to have taught her a very valuable lesson, I need to be ready to learn and accept it myself…
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Hi All,
I read most of the feed above (and the book), but couldn’t seem to find an answer on wether or not you are meant to completly cut out fruit and sweetners like stevia for the first 8 weeks and then bring them back in small amount after that?
I’m doing ok without fruit, but I can’t stand my oats without stevia or greek youghurt without a tiny bit of stevia either.
Any suggestions or an answer to the 8 week question would be good!!
Thank you!
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Sarah I completed the i quit sugar program successfully and am now off sugar (my biggest weakness was 2 teaspoons of raw honey in my cups of tea, i was having about 3-4 a day) however I have a different problem. I am now losing too much weight. I currently am 165cm and weigh 47.9kg, which is about 2-3kg less then i was before started the i quit sugar. I exercise at least 5-6 times a week, this includes running 6-10km 3 times a week and doing 2 strength sessions a week, with one pilates session as well.
I usually eat oats or sugar free granola with berries, almond milk and full fat greek yogurt for brekkie (plus a banana with almond butter pre morning run) then eat lots of veggies, meat/seafood usually cooked in coconut oil for the rest of the day. I also usually include quinoa and starchy veg such as sweet potato. I snack on seeds and raw crackers in the afternoon. I eat about 4-5 times a day and eat decent sized portions, maybe sometimes bigger than I should however my weight keeps dropping. Can you help me out???
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This is scary – but I’ll give it a burl ………………. I am sick of being tired!
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from it regarding blogging. thanks.
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