I heard it from the doctor this week…..gotta limit the sugar. Although I don’t currently have a problem, I had gestational diabetes when pregnant with my son so I am at higher risk for diabetes as the years go on. My daughter lectured me last week about soda and my addiction to cola.  Sigh.  From the mouths of babes……  I received the book Beyond Sugar Shock to review and it was an eye-opener.

Unfortunately for me, my daughter is right.  Sugar can be addictive and I do need to set a better example for my children, as well as make a better effort to keep myself healthy for their sake.  Reading Beyond Sugar Shock is akin to having my own personal health coach encouraging me to kick the habit.  The medical research is included to support what the book says.  However, it also addresses the emotional aspect of sugar addiction. Down to keeping a journal and even giving you prayers to use, this book is helping me to realize that sugar really is a big part of my diet and that I have the ability to reduce its power over me.  I’ve only been using it for a few days and I am already more intentional about the foods I eat.  While the book frowns upon many, many foods, I find that I just have to look for my personal happy medium and make it work for me.   The end of the book has an assortment of recipes that are both diet friendly and family friendly.  The recipe for kale chips wasn’t the first that I tried, there are some others that are pretty good.  What I liked best about them is that they are based on fresh ingredients, many of which I keep in my fridge or pantry all the time.  Having the right food around is becoming increasingly important in my quest to be healthier.  Beyond Sugar Shock is helping me get there.