I doubt many would think of sugar as a \u201cdrug\u201d. But the effects of sugar on our body, particularly refined and processed sugars, are very similar to illicit drugs.
\nWhen we eat foods that contain significant amounts of sugar, dopamine is released in the brain.
\nContinuing to eat these foods often and the dopamine receptors start to downregulate, causing fewer receptors for the dopamine.
\nThis means that the next time we eat sugar, the effect is blunted and our desire for sugar increases.
\nSugar is a simple carbohydrate and is quickly turned into glucose in the bloodstream causing blood sugar levels to spike.
\nSimple carbs are also found in fruits, veggies, and dairy products. But these have fiber and protein that slow the process.
\nSyrup, soft drink, candy, and table sugar don\u2019t have those \u201cslowing agents\u201d.
\nFor energy, your body needs to move habit glucose out of the bloodstream and into your cells. To do this, your pancreas makes insulin. As a result, your blood sugar level has a sudden drop.
\nThis drop in blood sugar leaves you feeling wiped out, shaky and searching for more sweets to regain that sugar \u201chigh\u201d.
\nOur brain sees sugar as a reward, which makes you keep wanting more of it.
\nWith soda or a candy bar, you\u2019re reinforcing that reward, which can make it tough to break the habit.
\nTo kick the sugar habit, choose good-for-you-type sweets. Berries are an awesome alternative.
\nBut don\u2019t expect to kick the sugar habit cold turkey. Take baby steps, as with everything, one day at a time, and make small incremental changes.
\nIf you are drinking two soft drinks a day, cut it back to one, then none.
\nIt\u2019s time to break the sugar habit that could be keeping your from reaching your fitness goals in 2015!
\nJohnny West is head coach and owner of CrossFit 760 Torquay and is a lifelong athlete with an appreciation for all things sports and outdoors.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
I doubt many would think of sugar as a \u201cdrug\u201d. But the effects of sugar on our body, particularly refined and processed sugars, are very similar to illicit drugs. When we eat foods that contain significant amounts of sugar, dopamine is released in the brain. Continuing to eat these foods often and the dopamine receptors […]<\/p>\n