Sugar Addicts Unite?

[Guest guest]

I am reading an interesting book about " sugar addiction " , and wondering

what people here think of this approach to eating? I've never been a

fan of the ultra-low-carb type of diet, as I firmly believe that a

varied, healthy diet serves our bodies so much better, but I've been

under an incredible amount of stress in the last couple of months, and

I've noticed that my old " friend " , a craving for sugar, has returned to

my life. So far, I've been able to stave it off, or satisfy it with

small amounts of sweets, but I don't want to have to live the way I did

pre-surgery, constantly struggling against my own biology. Wasn't that

kind of the point of the surgery in the first place?

What I have noticed, just from my first glance at this book, is that I

have begun eating artificially-sweetened things again, and I'm

wondering whether this isn't convincing my body that " hey, a really

*good* treat is just around the corner! " I am thinking of cutting

artificial sweeteners out of my diet for the next week or so, and

seeing whether that makes a difference.

That said, though, the cravings were at their worst toward the end of

last week, as I approached a very sad anniversary in my life. My

husband was out of town, and I was coping with a lot...and suddenly,

licorice all-sorts (don't ask why, but this is my drug of choice

lately) started to look extremely appealing to me. However, my husband

returned Saturday night, full of hugs and sympathy...and yesterday, the

cravings were back down to a dull roar. So I do think there's a lot to

be said for the emotional component. Unfortunately, he's off again

today for two more days, but last week is past, and I'm feeling a bit

stronger now.

I'm still not willing to do the " no-carb " thing, but what do people

think about cutting artificial sweeteners? Does this actually help?

(Oh, p.s., for the protein fiends out there, yes, I do use whey shakes,

and my protein is routinely up over 100 g. per day. I refuse to discuss

my calcium intake and/or source, however, on the grounds that I don't

feel like setting off W.W. III. At least, not today! )

--

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RNY September 19, 2001

Dr. Freeman, Ottawa General Hospital

BMI then: 43.5

BMI now: 23.2

-145 lbs

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[Guest guest]

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I cut out artificial sweeteners for about 3 months. It made no discernible

difference for me in terms of cravings or the way I felt. I, however, in no way

seem to resemble normal!

Kate