It's almost embarrassing coming back to this blog; it's been SO long! I wasn't absent from writing for any reason other than GUILT. How can you write about glorifying God in your body... when you're not doing so well with it yourself? My friend Liz asked me some questions to help pull me out of my black hole, so I'll open up with you all.
Liz asked, "Are you still completely sugar-free in your diet? If so, is it ever a struggle for you or is it just second nature now? Do you find it difficult when fellowshipping with others and dessert is offered (we are Baptists, you know ;})? Are there any fruits you avoid because of the natural sugars they contain? Do you think everyone could benefit from a sugar-free diet?"
I guess one good thing I can report is that YES, my diet is still sugar-free..... to a point. When I started I was determined to not just cut the obvious sugars, but also things like white bread/potatoes/rice, some fruits, etc. I've added some "white" foods back into my diet, but honestly I need to get rid of them again. I'm also not opposed to adding a touch of sugar or honey within a recipe, for example, stir-fry sauce. I've found that it doesn't have an adverse affect on me when surrounded by plenty of veggies and meats.
Not eating sugar isn't a struggle anymore, praise the LORD! Once I had it out of my system the cravings for it became very controllable. Yes, you read that right, I do still crave it, but nothing like before. Those desserts still smell incredible and I know they would taste amazing, but it's simply not worth it to me anymore. I know that it would only leave me with regret, guilt, and cravings for more sugar. The hardest part about being in a group setting is the potential to hurt someone's feelings by not eating their goodies!
As far as everyone benefiting from a sugar-free diet, my answer would be no. Some people can handle eating sugar without letting it take them over. My husband, for example, can take it or leave it. It doesn't control him and it doesn't affect his body in a harmful way. Me on the other hand, once I have a taste something inside just "snaps" and I have to have more. The cravings are intense and I have a very difficult time stopping myself. For me it is all or nothing.
While I'm writing here, let me go ahead and open up and spill everything to you. Since leaving Japan in 2007 I've slowly gained some weight back; probably 10 pounds total. It's not all from poor eating habits, although that contributed I'm sure. I haven't kept up with my exercise and besides not burning calories during exercise it also has slowed my metabolism overall. I need to get back into an exercise routine. Breaking old habits and forming new ones is so difficult!! I really want to get back on track. I need to pray more for God's strength; I obviously can't do it on my own.
Okay, now let me ask you, does anyone (besides Liz) still read this blog?? If you're still out there I will try to keep you updated; I know the accountability will help me!
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5 comments:
I have it pop up on my blog when you post something new:)
Karen in Russia:)
You know that I'll read it!;o)
Yes, I have you on my dashboard, so whenever you update, it lets me know. I had forgotten that your diet was sugar free. Do you ever use artificial sweeteners? I've been staying away from sugar for the last 3 weeks, and it is very hard. I'm doing this for a set time, I can't imagine doing it forever, but you are to be commended for having the courage to make the changes that you know you need!
Thanks for answering my questions, Pam. I, too, have a hard time resisting sugar. I have cut back considerably, but I still struggle with terrible cravings.
I just found your website. This part helped me alot. I am a mom of 3 and right now I am putting on weight and don't know why. I don't have cravings for sugar but I do have cravings for country food. That means everything fried and just down right good to eat. Hope to come back to your website.
Beth in US
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