I don't write many blogs or join many sparkpeople challenges because I am notorious for not completing things I start. However, today when I logged on I discovered a new team with a new challenge that is just what I need , the "Tame Your Sweet Tooth Challenge". I've overindulged with sugar most of my life and I have the added pounds and dental work to prove it. Even knowing the damage it is causing has not been enough to keep it in check. My inner child feels entitled to indulge and the adult usually allows her to have her way.

Despite all the other healthy habits I've started and maintained, like exercise and water drinking, my spark ticker has been "stuck" and I know that sweets are mostly to blame.

Week 1 of this challenge has suggested that I keep track of my sweet cravings, mood, and intake just to gather information on how bad the problem really is, so I'll be blogging about my progress ( probably not every day, but several times per week)

At the beginning of the year I went on the "Daniel Fast" which is a 3 week detox from several foods including sugar. I had to cut out even the "hidden sugar" in foods that you would not have suspected. I was surprised how well I did sticking to the guidelines without cheating.
But when it was over I fell right back into my bad old ways. So this time I am going to attack that one monster from all sides: emotionally, physically and spiritually.

My main reasons to cut back on sugar:

1 lose weight and regain a normal BMI
2 save (what's left of) my teeth and gums
3 lessen effects of inflammation
4 control blood sugar spikes
5 prevent pre-diabetes progression
6 substitute healthier foods
7 protect my brain and other organs from damage
8 avoid "accidents" (sugar overload sends my colon into " overdrive" ...and let's just say it's not a pretty picture")

I would appreciate your support; it feel like I'm saying goodbye to an old friend, even thought I now know that sugar is no friend of mine.

Blessings to you all