Hey JoAnn,

I guess I have been completely off sugar for some time now. About 6 months
from the last time I started the diet again. I say that and just a few
minutes ago I ate a piece of sugar-free chocolate that was so much like real
candy, it's hard to convince myself that it's sugar free.

There are so many low-carb alternatives to sugary foods (coconut flour,
choco-perfection chocolate, etc), that I don't have a problem staying off
the stuff. You're right, they (sugar, refined carbs) make you feel horrible
and even if I eat just a little, I feel start to feel bad again. Like a few
days ago, my wife and I went to dinner with some friends. She ordered some
onion tanglers, you know the breaded fried onion stuff, and after eating
just a few more than what came with my chopped sirloin and steamed veggies,
I was reminded of the feeling that carbs give me. Not good!

I'm glad I am off of it and would encourage you (or anyone else) to work at
staying off of it. The key, I think, is to give yourself plenty of variety
in low carb foods. Most vegetables are low carb and if you do a little
research, you'll find lots of great alternatives to the high-carb food you
used to crave. Jicama, Celery root, Rutabaga's etc. You'll feel better and
your health will thank you for it.

Take care!
Anthony

I'm still needing support in staying away from refined carbs! I can't
believe how miserable (headaches, bloating, depression) they make me feel,
and why I will lie to myself and say that eating this one piece of chocolate
cake won't be that bad for me! So although weight is not my priority,
keeping sane and healthy is. I've been reading so much about the bad health
effects of processed carbs and sugar - it's scary!

Has anyone been able to completely get off sugar?