My love for sweets started in elementary school. I’ll never forget my first obsession—those big chocolate candies filled with macadamia nuts. I could easily finish a whole box in a day. As I grew older, I became more mindful of portions, but I still turned to sugary treats as a “reward” or to cope with stress. On really tough days, I’d even imagine spraying whipped cream straight into my mouth.

By my thirties, my health wasn’t great. Feeling sluggish and emotionally unstable had become my normal. I was constantly tired, moody, and just not myself. I knew something had to change.

Around that time, I started studying molecular nutrition. Learning about the harmful effects of refined sugar and carbs was eye-opening. I began cutting them out slowly, and though it was tough at first, my health gradually improved.

But what exactly does refined sugar do to the body, and why is it so hard to quit? Here’s what I discovered—and what happened when I finally gave it up for good.

### How Refined Sugar Affects Blood Sugar

White sugar is stripped of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, so it absorbs quickly into the bloodstream, causing a sharp spike in blood sugar.

This rapid rise triggers a flood of insulin, which then causes blood sugar to crash. These extreme highs and lows lead to several problems:

– A sudden drop in blood sugar stresses the body, forcing it into energy-saving mode. Like a phone with 10% battery, you feel exhausted, sluggish, and unable to focus.
– To compensate, the body releases hormones like adrenaline, which can cause mood swings, irritability, and even aggression.

### Five Changes I Noticed After Quitting Sugar

1. No More After-Meal Slumps
Without wild blood sugar swings, I stopped feeling that overwhelming sleepiness after eating. No more struggling through afternoon naps at work.

2. Stable Moods
With fewer blood sugar crashes and adrenaline surges, I became less irritable and emotionally reactive. My mind finally felt steady.

3. Better Sleep
Sugar-induced adrenaline used to disrupt my sleep, making me wake up multiple times at night. Now, I sleep deeply and wake up refreshed.

4. Clearer Skin
Sugar increases oil production and inflammation. My chronic acne along my cheeks and hairline disappeared after changing my diet.

5. Easier PMS
Blood sugar instability affects hormones. My pre-period cravings for junk food and chocolate are now much milder.

### A Gentler Approach to Cutting Sugar

Quitting sugar isn’t easy—it triggers dopamine and endorphins, making it mildly addictive. Instead of going cold turkey, try reducing gradually. And if you slip up, don’t be too hard on yourself. Small steps lead to lasting change.Start where you are and move at a pace that feels right for you—that’s the healthiest approach. Remember, not all sweet foods are bad; it’s about choosing wisely. Get creative by using small amounts of natural sweeteners like honey. Swap processed treats for fresh fruit, and fill your plate with colorful veggies. Foods like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, tomatoes, and carrots offer natural sweetness along with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Treat this change as an exciting journey, and you’ll find yourself feeling balanced, healthy, and truly happy.