Breaking the Sugar Spell: Lessons from My 2016 Journal

Not long ago, I came across an old journal entry from November 2016 — right after Halloween. That year, I had fallen headfirst into a sugar binge. You know the kind: leftover Halloween candy that mysteriously disappears one piece at a time… until it’s all gone.

When I realized how out of control it had gotten, I made a promise to myself — no sugar until Thanksgiving. I knew my body needed a break.

During that sugar-free stretch, I attended my very first Nutrition Response Testing class — a turning point in how I approached health and healing. I was learning how the body communicates what it needs, and how nutrition — real, whole-food nutrition — can restore balance.

Thanksgiving eventually arrived, and I enjoyed my share of mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, and dressing… but I skipped dessert. I made it through Christmas the same way — no sweets, no cookies, no candies. I’ll admit, it wasn’t easy (and it wasn’t particularly fun!), but it taught me something powerful:
I was in control of what I ate. Not the other way around.

By Christmas, something amazing had happened — the cravings were mostly gone. I remembered the taste of dessert, but my body wasn’t begging for it anymore. I had reset my system — and my mindset.

Today, I do enjoy desserts, but with intention. If I’ve had a week full of carbs, I’ll pass on the sweets. It’s about balance — and awareness — not deprivation.

As we head into the “Sugar Season” — Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas — I encourage you to take a mindful approach to your meals. Enjoy the traditions, but listen to your body.

A little sugar won’t hurt, but too much can derail your energy, mood, and immune system just when you need them most.

You don’t have to be perfect. Just be present.

And remember: you’re in charge of what goes into your body.