Sugar Knockout

 

My health is fairly good for an 81 year old. True, I have neuropathy with numbness in my feet and legs. Yes, I use a cane to maneuver around the city, especially with the uneven sidewalks. My blood pressure is good, my heart and kidneys are fine. I do take lots of generic medications but none seem to be interacting poorly with any others. I have great doctors who communicate with each other. My Nurse Practitioner (my doctor of 30 years recently retired) coordinates all my records and doctors. Recently, she suggested I see a nutritionist. After three visits I knew what I had to do. Give up soda, Oreo cookies and ice cream. Eat smaller portions and read package labels. Within a month I lost five pounds and seem to have more energy. Yes, I have strong massages at least three times a month and have had a weekly yoga session in my apartment for over 10 years. My instructor tells me I have become strong and am in great shape for my age. I ride a stationary bicycle at home and try to walk as much as possible. I knew I had to do more.

A review copy of Cherie Calbom’s MS, CN new book Sugar Knockout arrived. She is the author of twenty-nine books, including The Juice Lady’s Big Book of Juices and Green Smoothies. Published by Siloam and Charisma Media- www.charismahouse.com  www.juiceladycherie.com. I read her book on a recent bus trip and found it very helpful and worth following her recommendations.

 

Products with high sugar content that are not considered high in sugar: BBQ sauce, fruit yogurt, spaghetti sauce, sodas, dried fruit, energy bars and energy drinks. Why no sugar: It contributes to inflammation; it raises your cholesterol; ADHD, hyperactivity and autism are affected by sugar; it destroys your teeth and causes aging and wrinkles. Sugar contributes to acid reflux (I take two medications for that); Sugar can impair thyroid function (I had problems as a youth). Cancer is linked to high levels of sugar in the diet and to arterial disease.

 

The book strongly suggests: no sugar, no artificial sweetener (I just bought organic sugar and threw out the Sweet & Low), smaller, more frequent meals and EAT breakfast. Eat protein, watch the grains, and choose vegetables and low-sugar fruits. Get at least eight hours of quality sleep (I am seeing a sleep specialist soon as I am told I might have sleep apnea) and exercise. I have to remember to use my stationary bike and walk more. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. I am guilty of not drinking enough water. Other no no’s are alcohol (I have reduced my intake in half, but it is my living) and all desserts. I have to get rid of my salad dressings with added sugar or sweeteners and my wonderful jams and jellies. Check your pasta sauces for added sugars. The book recommends eating fresh or frozen fruits with no added sugar (I have become a label reader before buying). Eat vegetables and proteins (eggs, fish, meat and poultry). I have become a fan of brown or red rice. The book recommends seltzer/sparkling water as well as unsweetened tea. Hummus, guacamole, salsa, vinegars, pesto and mustard are on the good list.

 

Can I handle the does and don’ts that the book recommends? I will sure try. My long life might depend on it.