What will be new for you this year? Will you be happier and healthier? Everyone knows that most New Year's resolutions fizzle by the end of January. But here's the good news: it may take less time to see a change if what you resolve to do is effective. 21 days seems to be the biological sweet spot: experts say that it only takes 3 weeks to make or break a habit.
The number one thing you can do to improve your health? STOP THE SUGAR! By now you've read or heard many times that sugar makes you fat and causes inflammation (the precursor to all disease). But have you experimented with how you personally feel when you stop eating sugar? The first few days can be torture. The cravings can feel overwhelming. But most of us get over it and feel empowered by the accomplishment. Seeing some weight drop off and getting sounder sleep helps too. You may even start to feel smarter because some brain fog is starting to clear out.
But here's the kicker: to break the craving cycle you can't just avoid sweets. You also need to avoid the starches that melt into sugar in your body: things like rice, potatoes, wheat, corn and oats. Mmm hmm, that's right: no bread, cereal, crackers and chips as well as cookies and cake and even FRUIT. Yes, fruit. The more fruit you eat, the more sweets your body will crave. The brain experts show us scans that reveal the addictive nature of sugar - similar to cocaine. So think rehab and go cold turkey.
Remember, it's only for 3 weeks and it's an experiment. Think of it as your opportunity to disprove the science and demonstrate that you are the exception to the rule. If you do not lose weight or feel any better then you will stand alone as the only human to require sugary food for vibrant health - your shortcut to fame and fortune. More likely you will see how HUGE a role sugar really is playing in your diet and resolve to eat less of it as the year continues. Which means that perhaps this year will really see a new, happier and healthier you!
Here are 3 tips to help you succeed in your 3 week mission:
1. Get everyone in the house to take the challenge - misery loves company. Remember that it's not just about losing weight. It is primarily about reducing the inflammation in your body which could be the cause of everything from mood swings to mania and everything in between. Symptoms like acne, headaches, insomnia and joint pain.
2. Drink clean water to soothe the oral fixation. Slice lemons and limes and keep them in the fridge to dress it up if you like or better yet, add a drop or two of grapefruit oil, which may help snuff out your appetite for sugar.
3. Start eating coconut oil. It's a healthy fat that satisfies your appetite, revs your metabolism and fuels your brain. Cook your eggs and stir fry your veggies in it and melt it into your coffee.
Need more support? Sign up for Nutritional Therapy and buy the Food Truth cookbook to bring 300 real food recipes to your table this year.
