Sugar Detox FAQ

As the Sugar Detox Challenge commences, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you get started on the sugar detox.

Is sugar really that bad?

1. 1. • Current research is very supportive of the linkage between excess sugar intake and an increased risk of multiple chronic diseases.  Most of us in this country are over consuming it because of its addictive qualities-one study done with rats proved it was more addictive than cocaine!
      • Need more convincing? Refer to my blog post on the Five Journeys website: ‘Here’s Why You Need a Sugar Detox’ for more detailed information

How can I prepare?

1. • Use my blog ‘Top 6 Places Sugar Could Be Hiding In Your Diet’ to do a clean sweep of your pantry and fridge
   • Use the sugar detox grocery list & meal plan to do your shopping and some of the prepping/cooking before the 20th so that you can participate along with me!  
   • Wondering if a snack or sauce in your pantry is sugar detox approved?  Use our Label Reading blog for guidance!
   • Grab a buddy and get your friends/family involved-you’re more likely to stay on track if those around you are aware of your plan and can keep you held accountable!
   • Take a deep breath!
     1. You’ve got this!  What a better way to reset your body on a healthy track than with nourishing, tasty and plant filled recipes!  

What can I expect to feel?

1. • Most of you should feel more energy, improved digestion, less bloating, better sleep, and increased mental clarity.  You may feel some cravings in the beginning but these should go away soon after removing all processed sugar sources from your diet.  Refer to my handout coming on Day 2 of the detox: ‘How to Crack a Sugar Craving’.
   • In some cases, if your body has been used to a highly processed carbohydrate or high sugar diet for quite some time, you may feel a little bit worse in the beginning of the detox.  This is likely due to your body mobilizing stored toxins and adjusting to increased fiber intake. If you feel awful the entire detox then this is a sign that you need additional detoxing support.  In this case, I would strongly recommend calling our office to schedule a one-on-one nutrition consult with me for an in-depth individualized full body detox plan.

Can I eat out?

• • • Yes-I’ve included 2 meals out during the 7 days of the detox.  Please refer to our blog: How to Dine Out: The Sugar Detox Way-releasing on Day 4 of the Detox.

What if I like to meal prep on Sundays?

• • • No problem! I recommend that the following recipes be done ahead of time for the week:
      • All breakfast recipes can be made completely ahead of time
      • For lunch/dinner recipes:
        • Pad thai, lemon chicken, zucchini boats and butternut alfredo is best served fresh
        • Black bean soup is easily made ahead of time and stored in the fridge/freezer – just reheat at time of serving
        • Omega salad can be assembled ahead of time-just wait to dress until serving
        • Winter buddha bowl is great eaten warm or cold leftover

What should I drink?

• • • Please drink plenty of water throughout the day, mainly between meals. Lemon water or seltzer is allowed as well if no sweeteners/sugars listed above are added. Up to 1-2 cups of coffee or tea daily are allowed but make sure to avoid adding any sugar or sweetened creamers!

What about alcohol?

• • • For best results and body benefit, I recommend avoiding ALL alcohol during the detox as it breaks down to sugar in the body – remember, it’s only 7 days :).

Will I like the recipes?

• • • It’s important to remember that we are making an effort to retrain your taste buds with this detox – using only limited fruit for sweetness can taste very low sugar from what you may be used to! Pungent spices and herbs have been used in the recipes to pack in flavor in a natural way to make sure the foods keep your taste buds guessing while also promoting bodily detox.

Can I take supplements while on the detox?

• • Please continue to take all doctor recommended vitamins, supplements, medications while on the detox. This detox is only food-based so there shouldn’t be any worry of interactions with medications or supplements.