April 11, 2014

Ask The Pharmacist With Joe DiMatteo-SUGAR ADDICTIONS- April 5, 2014

Why are we so addicted to sugar?  It is no different than any other addiction like that of drugs or alcohol. Sugar changes the reward systems to the brain. We eat when we are sad, happy, bored etc. because we have an emotional attachment.  Serotonin and Tryptophan levels are raised when you consume a lot of carbohydrates.  This gives you the emotional high component of the addiction (or where the addiction begins) and it does not last very long.  It wears off quickly and you go back to eat more.  It is a self perpetuating process.

The solution to the addiction is a matter of discipline.  You need to break the cycle.  Admit it come clean.  It needs to be done abruptly or cold turkey.  Recommended is a Detox Diet for 3-7 days to start. Trying to do this gradually usually ends up in a migration back to the foods (such as sugar) causing the addiction.  Make up your mind, sugar is an addiction.  It weakens bones, increases fat, triglycerides, insulin resistance, raises the rate of type 2 diabetes and can cause depression.  Take control of your health by understanding the problems associated with an addiction and take action to stop it.

Here is the link to watch the entire segment if you would like:

Sugar Adictions – April 5, 2014

As always,

Be well,

Diane Silverman R.Ph.
Ask The Pharmacist Group