why you want more sugar with your sugar

7/24/2015

As we all know, it can be hard to resist the urge to sink our teeth into a large piece of chocolate or splurge on some cookies and mindlessly go through a family size bag of M&M’s…

              What we don’t always know is why?? WHY can’t you stop once you start?! Here’s what you need to know:

1.       Refined Carbs and Sugar/High Glycemic Carbs= Quick Blood Sugar Highs followed by Lows (crashes)

2.       Blood Sugar Highs and Lows= activation of a trigger response in the brain for cravings, hunger, and rewards

a.       Rewards and pleasure center react and have been shown to light up more for the cake than the kale

3.       High Glycemic Foods= oooooh I can have a few more, and more, aaaannddd where’d it all go??

a.       Recent study showed that when a group of subjects were given a milkshake with high glycemic syrups they were much hungrier four hours later and on top of that the brain region which regulates cravings, addictions, and hunger was super active. The cause of this was the intense plummet of blood sugar which means the brain goes into protection and is now more inclined to find something to eat that will get the blood sugar back up again and what does that mean... more over eating of the high glycemic foods.

These studies and results are a great example of why I believe in eating healthy and within my caloric goals rather than unhealthy till it fits macros and calories. But it is important to remember that not everyone is going to respond that way to sugary foods. With all things considered, there is not one specific formula for everyone and it is VERY important that you seek out the attention you need when it comes to nutrition. Obviously calories are not the only thing that matters in your fitness journey. Foods have chemistry with the body and different foods react differently with our cells, muscles, and other body parts and functions; knowing how our body responds to certain foods can be very helpful in achieving the best results. Some people may need to focus more on what they are eating rather along with how much. It is all a science. Even though I believe in the calories in vs. calories out formula, I believe there are multiple methods to the madness and tons of ways to go about achieving our goals.

              I have found that a lot of people find it helpful to indulge in their craving with just a small amount or taste, while I also know many like me who wait days and days and weeks until indulging in those cravings even though they will have them. It is best to get in a consistent pattern which you can realistically maintain for life in the effort to better in health.

              There is no need to over think the process though, take it all in and have a plan. Just ease into the process so you can stick with it and not worry about rebounding:) Soon I will be discussing doing what works best for you since there’s so much information out there it Is important to find your fit…literally.