How To Break Free From Modern Day Addictions

Did you know that one of the most addictive ingredients in a lot of the food and drink we consume today is sugar? It is in most of the packaged items you can find at the shops, but unfortunately it is one of the leading causes of disease and illness in the world. Since childhood many of us view sugar as a treat and to be had after every meal. I certainly have! But sadly, it only fuels our craving for more and isn’t doing us any good.

Sugar has the ability to release chemicals in your brain that tell you that you’re not full. Have you ever eaten dinner and you were so full that you thought you couldn’t eat anymore, but then you tasted someone else's dessert (sugar), and suddenly you were able to eat a whole cheesecake or sticky toffee pudding?! You may have regretted it soon after because you’ve overindulged, and you felt so full that you could barely move or function normally! Yep, I’ve been there too! However, it is not only uncomfortable, but it puts a lot of pressure on the body and gut.

Other addictions that control our brains are mainly TV and our phones, constantly giving you a stimulus that drip feeds dopamine (a ‘feel good’ hormone) to your brain to tell you it’s happy. But often the media, blue light, and endless scrolling doesn’t result in happiness. It can actually have the opposite effect because there is rarely good news being shared on these platforms.

If you find yourself struggling with sweet foods, or you feel an endless pull towards your devices, here are my top tips to help:

●        Utilise the natural sugars in fruits for when you need a sugar boost.

●        Try not to overindulge in sugary sweets, they’re called ‘treats’, so have them as a treat, not every day!

●        Set boundaries on your screen usage to free your brain. How about taking up a new hobby like painting, writing, or reading? Getting fresh air can do wonders too, like going for a walk or spending time gardening.

●        Avoid or limit your time watching the news or other media channels.

And of course, if we can be of any help or support with these areas please ask.

With love,
Lewis