Over on CommonHealth, Terry Schraeder, MD, an internist at Mt. Auburn Hospital and a clinical assistant professor at Brown University, speaks candidly about her realization that she was consuming way too much sugar - likely more than 22 teaspoons - each day.
Her addiction started with a sugar-laden drink disguised as sparkling orange juice and spiraled into regular consumption of flavored coffees, muffins, snacks, desserts and "healthy foods" containing hidden corn syrup. In the piece, Schraeder explains that a high triglyceride level convinced her to change her eating habits:
For the past eight weeks, I have tried to limit adding sugar in any form to my food and started searching nutrition labels for sugar content. If the food lists the grams of sugar on the nutrition label (these may be natural or added), then I check the list of added ingredients to see if there is any added sugar in the form of corn syrup, sucrose, fructose, brown sugar, juice concentrate, honey, molasses, etc. If there is, I know it is “added” sugar. I try to limit my added sugar to less than 24 grams (or six teaspoons) each day.
It has not been easy but it has been well worth the effort. For the first time in years, my moods and energy are more level, the sweet cravings are gone and I feel calmer. The fat around my belly has disappeared. My teeth feel smoother and cleaner despite the same oral hygiene. The late afternoon slump and brain fog are no more. I will have my triglycerides rechecked soon.
I feel great but I am still in shock. I had no idea I was consuming too much sugar. If you had asked me, I would have denied it. For years, I have railed against fat and calories, smoking and lack of exercise. I had not considered my own sugar intake.
The piece is worth a read and may inspire you to take a closer look at your own daily sugar intake.
Previously: Study shows banning soda purchases using food stamps would reduce obesity and type-2 diabetes, What do Americans buy at the grocery store? and Mindful eating tips for the desk-bound
Photo by Moyan Brenn
