30 Day Sugar Detox Challenge

The summer is over and the season of overindulgence is upon us. But, before we stuff our faces with candy, turkey, and pie, let’s do something grand for our overall wellbeing! Detoxing is the latest trend and many of us have considered it, but drastically cutting out food seems like an ineffective long-term lifestyle approach.

However, according to experts, there is one kind of detox that is worthwhile: reducing sugar in your diet can have a long-lasting positive effect on your health and appearance.

Sugar is not only the leading cause of poor oral health and heart disease, but it can also keep us overweight, negatively affect skin, and cause premature aging, according to nutrition experts. Everyone can benefit from reducing added sugar — that is definitely food for thought.

So, we here at Artful Smiles are proposing a 30 Day Sugar Detox Challenge through the month of October. Not only will you be reducing your chances of tooth decay and improving your general oral health, but you will also reduce your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and LOOK YOUNGER!

Our goal is no more than 25g (6 teaspoons) of added sugar per day.

For people who want a more structured Sugar Detox experience, here are nutritionist Lisa Drayer’s recommendations:

First 3 Days: Quit sugar cold turkey. No added sugars, no fruits, no dairy, and no starchy vegetables (such as potatoes, butternut squash, peas, and corn). Food recommendations: meats, eggs, hummus, nuts, leafy vegetables, and peppers. Beverage suggestions: water, unsweetened tea, and black coffee.
Starting Day 4: Add one apple and one dairy food per day. Dairy should be full fat and unsweetened.
Week Two: Carrots and peas can be added. One glass of red wine per day can also be added.
Week Three: Antioxidant rich berries can be added and an extra serving of dairy. You can also add a serving of starchy vegetable, such as sweet potatoes and winter squash.
Week Four: Add grains such as barley, quinoa, oatmeal, and buckwheat. Grapes and one ounce of dark chocolate can also be added.
Week Five: You can add breads, so sandwiches are back on the menu. After 31 days, no fruit is off limits. This is the maintenance part of the plan. Intentional indulgence is allowed, such as occasional ice cream and a piece of a birthday cake.

Good Luck! We are looking forward to you sharing your progress with us.

Though October 25th, please post photographs and recipes on our Facebook page — we will offer PRIZES to the most proactive people!