What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Eating Sugar? — Eat This Not That | XpertsReviews.com

Reducing added sugar can change cravings, energy and blood sugar levels over time.

If you consume a decent amount of sugar, going on a sugar detox might seem like a good idea. After all, most health experts compare sugar to a drug that doesn’t really offer any health benefits. However, according to Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, certified sports dietitian and co-author of Flat stomach recipe book for dummiesyour body doesn’t actually need a “sugar detox.” In fact, it’s already equipped with a “highly efficient detoxification system,” that is, your liver and kidneys. “What happens is your body adapts to consuming less added sugar, and that can seem dramatic, especially at first,” she says. Here’s what happens to your body when you stop eating sugar.

In the first hour

Within the first hour without sugar, you may notice a drastic change, which many call a sugar crash. “Blood sugar rises less (especially if you’re used to sugary foods),” says Collingwood. In addition, the insulin response is weaker and more stable. “You may experience fewer energy ‘blackouts’ later,” says Collingwood.

After the first day

After just one day without sugar, you will notice more changes in your body. “Blood sugar levels become more stable throughout the day,” says Collingwood. However, you may experience some side effects, including headache, irritability, and strong cravings. “It’s less about ‘withdrawal’ and more about your brain adapting to less dopamine stimulation from sugar,” she says.

After a week

After a week, your body will begin to stabilize. “Cravings often start to subside” and “taste buds start to reset,” says Collingwood. “Foods can naturally taste sweeter,” she says. Additionally, energy levels may seem more consistent and you may experience some digestive improvement. “Some people notice better digestion or reduced bloating,” she says.

After a month

After a month without sugar, you can experience some amazing benefits, including better blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity, reduced risk factors for metabolic problems, “if added sugar intake was high before,” possible weight changes, “especially if sugar was a significant source of calories,” and even more stable mood and fewer energy dips.

How long does it take to “detox” from sugar?

How long does it actually take for your body to completely “detox” from sugar? Collingwood explains that adaptation typically takes three to seven days for cravings to subside, and two to four weeks for more noticeable metabolic and taste changes.

Here’s what she recommends

6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

What does Collingwood recommend? “Instead of abruptly cutting out all sugar, a sustainable approach is more effective,” she says. First, focus on eliminating added sugar, not natural sugar. “Keep fruits, dairy products, etc. “, she said. Next, cut back on soda, candy, baked goods, and sugary drinks. How you eat your food also matters. “Pair carbs with protein and fats. This helps stabilize blood sugar and reduce cravings.” Then, eat regularly, because “skipping meals can make sugar cravings worse,” and don’t forget to hydrate. “Dehydration can look like sugar cravings,” she says. Overall, don’t aim for perfection. “An all-or-nothing approach often backfires,” she says. “Reducing added sugar intake can improve energy, mood and metabolic health, but your body isn’t ‘toxic’ from sugar. It’s about retraining your palate and stabilizing your blood sugar, not cleansing your system.”

Lea Groth