ABC-7’s Jennifer Myers Starts A Sugar Detox

My name is Jennifer Myers and I am a sugar addict.

I consume so much sugar that it affects my daily life. I’m tired all the time, I rarely exercise, and I visit the candy machines on a daily basis.

I, like so many others, make daily food choices based on brain chemistry. While in no way comparing the differing harmfulness of each, studies show that when you eat sugar, your brain triggers a release of dopamine — just like cocaine — which can be highly addictive.

The result of my choices: 15 pounds gained in four months.

After an appointment with a nutritionist, we decided my biggest problems are my sugar cravings and portion control.

But just like with any addiction, making the choice to put down the cupcake can be difficult.

“If you eat something and you’re like, ‘I want more, I want more, I want more,’ stop and say, ‘You know what? Let me ask this question 30 minutes from now,’ because I guarantee you’re not going to feel the same 30 minutes later after you finish.” said nutritionist Javier Gutierrez.

Gutierrez also advised me to stop starting my day with sugary cereals, which only increase my body’s need to keep up the sugar intake throughout the rest of the day. Instead, I should opt for granola cereal with an egg and toast.

And as for portion control, he recommends food groups in servings the size of my fist.

He said it takes about one week to curb the sugar cravings and a month to break the habit entirely.

My goal is to commit to one whole month of changing my food behavior, and I’m inviting you to join me. I’ll be giving daily updates on the website for the next 30 days of my progress as well as tips, tricks, and recipes along the way.