NAVIGATE

Kris Carr

Blog Post

The Sugar Debate: To Quit or Not to Quit

Hey Sweetness,

Are you afraid of bananas? I don’t mean literally, of course—but do you avoid higher-sugar fruits because you think they’re “bad” for you? This is something I want to discuss today.

Sugar is tricky. And in general, we should keep our sugar intake low.

Like most things that affect our health, though, it’s more complicated than that. Some health advocates aren’t acknowledging this, and are pushing a more black-and-white approach. I think telling the whole, detailed story is more helpful.

In this blog, I’ll cover my personal sugar story, the nuances of various types of sugar and how to reduce sugar in recipes. I’ll also outline what I believe is a healthy—physically, mentally and emotionally—approach to sugar. At the end of the day, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing and it really comes down to what works for you.

My sugar story

Way back in the day, I used to joke that I had a threesome every night with two guys named Ben and Jerry. In other words, ice cream (and all forms of sugar for that matter) were seriously seductive and addictive to me. I struggled through this rollercoaster relationship for years. Let me paint the painful picture for you: Most nights, I’d open up a fresh pint of ice cream and promise myself I’d have just a bite or two (hello, amnesia!). But then I’d quickly realize that I couldn’t put the spoon down. How did I stop? I’d use my dessert as my ash tray… Except that wasn’t enough—I’d just dig out the cigarette butt and ashes and keep going. Next (desperate) step? I’d spray it all down with cleaning supplies. That would finally stop me. Talk about dysfunction.

I tell you this to illustrate that I fully understand the power sugar can have over us. And as a nation, our sugar consumption has gotten completely out of control. Thankfully I have a new, healthier relationship with sugar now (and I kicked cigarettes to the curb a long time ago, too). I’ll nibble on some fruit or vegan dark chocolate when I want something sweet these days. Sugar isn’t the boss. I am. By changing my diet, resetting my tastebuds and dealing with the emotional stuff (important!), I was able to put sugar in its place. I’d say what helped me ditch the sweet stuff the most, though, was educating myself on all things sugar.

Not all sugar is created equal

One response to the sugar epidemic is to deem all sugars off-limits, but there’s a big difference between natural sugars and added sugars. The reason that government agencies and health experts make a point of discouraging “added sugars” is because these types of sugars are heavily processed and devoid of any natural nutrients. They bring our blood sugar up without supplying our bodies with anything healthful: a lose-lose situation.

Naturally occurring sugars—I’m talking about the sugars in fresh fruits and vegetables—deliver sweetness while also providing vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and concentrated stores of powerhouse phytonutrients.

The sugars in fruit (or sweeter vegetables, like carrots, beets and sweet potatoes) also come packaged with fiber, which helps us feel full and slows the absorption of sugar into our bloodstream. Plus, the micronutrients in fresh fruit may prevent the uptake of sugar in our small intestine. This means that many of us can enjoy the delightful sweetness and health benefits of fresh fruit without experiencing the drawbacks of mood-busting highs and lows and blood sugar spikes.

Not surprisingly, evidence shows that populations who eat more fruit have a lower BMI and lower risk of developing many chronic diseases, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, type II diabetes, digestive diseases and obesity.

A sane approach to sugar

A healthy relationship with sugar is different for everyone. If you have special reason to be vigilant about the amount of sugar in your diet—for example, if you’re a cancer patient, or have diabetes or candida—then you may want to exercise some mindfulness even with naturally occurring sugars. For you, it may be wise to seek out fruits that are lower in sugar, and to use only moderate amounts of fruit and sweet veggies in your green drinks and meals. Avoiding refined and processed sugary treats as much as possible is a no-brainer when facing these challenges.

For those who need to swear off the sweet stuff, don’t despair. It’s possible to create tons of flavor and character in recipes without relying exclusively on sweet ingredients. One of my favorite tricks for brightening the taste of my juices and smoothies is to use fresh herbs, lemon, lime and ginger. Just because your juice or smoothie isn’t sweet, doesn’t mean it should be blah.

But for many people, I advocate finding some middle ground in the sugar struggle. A dogmatic approach of total avoidance—including naturally occurring sugars in produce—can lead to rebellion and bingeing (see: Ben & Jerry’s story). Not to mention all the missed out benefits that come from something as remarkable as a blueberry. Keeping sugar in check should not be about vilifying it or fearing it. It should be about making peace with it, living comfortably with it and understanding how much sugar feels good to each of us as individuals. The aforementioned banana could be a no-no for some, but could be hugely healthful for others. It’s up to each of us to determine how much sugar is right for our bodies and lifestyles.

 

 

A low-sugar sweet treat

In addition to fruit and dark chocolate, I love to satisfy my sugar cravings with naturally sweet (and mega-nutritious) smoothie and nut milk recipes. Here’s a super-delicious and superbly healthy nut milk to sip on when you’re jonesin’ for something sweet. It’s from my new book, Crazy Sexy Juice, and I just know you’re going to love it. And by the way, a big thank you to everyone who left a review on Amazon! Your praise means the world to me. It’s why I do what I do. Now on to the recipe…

Chocolate Almond Milk

vegan chocolate milk recipe
Yields 3.5-4 cups

  • 1 cup almonds, soaked for 8 hours
  • 2 to 3 pitted Medjool dates
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons cacao powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

1. In a high-speed blender, blend the almonds, dates, salt, and water till totally smooth.

2. Create a large, double layer of cheesecloth and hold it over a large mixing bowl, or hold a nut milk bag over a large mixing bowl. Pour the almond milk through the cheesecloth or bag and squeeze thoroughly. You can compost or discard the nut pulp.

3. Transfer strained almond milk back to your blender. Add the cacao and cinnamon, if using. Blend till smooth.

4. Transfer the nut milk to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3 days.

Now I’d love to hear from you: What’s your approach to sugar? OR what’s your biggest sugar hang-up?

Peace & nanas,

Add a comment
  1. Eileen Norton says:

    I’ve recently begun consuming black cumin seeds. As suggested from some websites I’ve visited in “ways to consume black cumin seeds”, I’ve been mixing equal amounts of ground black seeds with honey. The suggested way to eat this is to have 1-2 teaspoons in the morning, one half hour before eating breakfast. I do try to make an effort to eliminate sugars from my diet (like you and so many other health coaches suggest). I was wondering if this daily intake of honey is suggested, especially on an empty stomach which I’m assuming can cause a spike in insulin levels. Any imput would be great appreciated.

    Thank you advance,
    Eileen

  2. Herta Knellwolf says:

    in the matter of getting used not do eat so much sugar i tell you from my part, that it doesn’t take many days to get used not to put sugar in tea or coffee. one can sense the taste much better without. it’s like a different drink!
    as it comes to bananas: i got rather confuesed about what all the experts tell in their Newsletters. the latest thing i heard, was that when we eat the banana in a quite green condition there is not as much sugar in it, but the nutritions for the micobiom is then greatest!

  3. Margaret says:

    Hi Kris, and thank you for being there. I am a cancer patient and consume no refined sugar and 2 or fewer servings of fruit a day (one raspberries, for the ellagic acid). But high-sugar vegetables? I thought all veggies except corn and potatoes were safe and unlimited. I consume tons of carrots. Can I find a listing or website dealing with this? Thanks, and good health and good luck to all of you.

  4. DianaM says:

    Hello Kris 🙂 The only problem I’ve got with Cacao powder is that it makes me super hype, it gives me tachycardia and makes me feel super anxious. Is there something I can substitute with? thank you!

  5. Bernard says:

    Hi kris my name is Bernard I lost my mum to cancer she pancreatic cancer my mum was very fit at get age she was a diabetic I’m cut out sugar I really want to thankyou for being so loving and caring love your friend Bernard

  6. Maryann says:

    Hi Kris,
    I’ve been craving pineapple and bananas since I started chemo. I never ate those before, but now I put them in my protein smoothie every day. Is this too much sugar?

  7. Jo & Jules says:

    Excellent explanation! Everyone’s body is made differently, and so is every sugar product. We should certainly take caution when eating sugary foods, though.

  8. Matheo says:

    I have personally found that my sugar cravings are reduced when I am focused on my important priorities and doing work that I love, connected what gives me meaning.
    When we are inspired by what we do we experience less need for addictions and excesses.
    When I am distracted by meaningless work and then have to catch-up on my meaningful work my level of stress increases and along with it my desire for sugar.

  9. kristie Serio says:

    I would recommend Lisa Musician. She is a AllerCoach and a Registered Dietician.

  10. Stephanie says:

    Hello i stopped tahing sugar montgs ago but recently i started putting natural turbinado sugar in my oats, grits and etc.. Is it healthy and is that ok.. Since its not refined sugar.

  11. Maiysa says:

    Thanks Kris for the great article! You are my inspiration!! I believe I posted my question in the wrong reply box. My question is how much sugar do you allow on average, fructose and all, not added sugar but natural sugars in a day? I read that 24 grams a day is typical for woman or 6 teaspoons of sugar. I wrote my story on someone else’s post, but to recap, I am an ex cancer patient, I have mast cell disease and liver disease with lots of fatty liver, even though I am 5′ 6″ and weigh 118 pounds, give or take. But me loves me sugar, mostly fruit but feel this might be part of my liver issue. I have read lots of negative things about sugar, especially fructose and its effects on the liver. I am also for some strange reason, now pre diabetic. I am an extremely healthy eater, but think I have been adding too much sugar to my veggie juice. I add an apple or two, with carrots as my sweetners just about daily. I also eat a date or two and my total sugar, fructose and all, for one day was almost 100 grams of sugar. Yikes!!! That’s not every day, but a few days. All good sugar, but I am obviously not processing it properly and it’s way too much!. If anyone else can answer my question, that would be helpful. But would really like to know how much you allow Kris. (I will check my Crazy Sexy Diet book to see if you list the answer there) It’s my second week off sugar. But noticed if I don’t eat enough, I start to not feel well also. Thanks!

    • Zuzana says:

      Hi Malysa, I am not an expert but I do believe that natural sugar in fruits cannot do you any harm. It seems to me that you are a bit overstressed over the matter (I am not critisizing you, this is just a friendly advice). Maybe you could try to get relaxed and trust your body a bit more. In Crazy Sexy Diet you find many tips on the inner work. Healthy diet is very important but your inner attittude is equally important. Fear and stress over the “right amount” of sugar is not good for you. I send you lots of love.

      • Maiysa says:

        Zuzana, Thank you for taking the time to reply. I don’t know how I came off overstressed, but thank you for caring. Maybe it was from me posting too much and trying to figure out the right place to post?. I was very active on the old blog-CSD and am usually just an observer on this one. The “I should trust my body more” comment made me laugh. As well intended as it was, it was bad timing. 🙂 I just got home after hours at a hospital hooked up to an infusion. Anaphylaxis, tachycardia, rash and feeling like something awful had invaded my body hit at 4 am while in a gentle sleep. I have mast cell activation and dysautonomia. I was a healthy person, and literally over night my amazing healthy life changed, and now I don’t know from moment to moment what food, pollen, virus, or a tiny chemical smell is going to do to my body. Desperate? Maybe. I heard today from a man that I had a 5 minute encounter with- Hope is the last to die. After 9 years, I still have hope and I look for anything that can help me just to get even 1% better from my daily struggle. And at 4 am, Meditation and deep breathing of trying to beat the anxiety that goes with feeling like you are dying, was the only thing that kept me from having to call an ambulance. But I do appreciate the reminder, and truly wish I could trust my body more. I watched Kris transform her health and I hold onto every morsel of information she has, so if I seem desperate to know how much sugar, it’s not out of stress, but out of survival.

  12. michelle says:

    I am confused as i understand you have cancer. How do you add so much dates or sometimes bananas to your smoothies or drinks?

  13. Nicole says:

    Do you think the added refined sugar in the ben&jerrys was really the worst/most addicting part about the ice cream, though? From what I have learned over my health journey, a little refined sugar here and there is no big deal. When people start sugar shaming they usually relate sugar to foods like ice cream, doughnuts, cake, and cookies. Personally, I do not think the sugar in these treats is the bad part, but rather the processed oils and animal fats. Don’t be afraid of fruit and it’s okay to sprinkle some brown sugar on your morning oats, its when you pair refined sugars or any sugars with sticks of butter and refined oils that your body has trouble handling the sugar. Sugar on its own really is not that scary. Of course, keeping intake to whole food sources (like fruit) will always be healthiest.

  14. I love this blog post! I try to control my sugar intake when it comes from refined sugars, wich I don’t touch if I can avoid them. I do it because I want to, not because I need to.
    But sometimes I feel bad because I didn’t do it as strict as I’m supposed to be because I eat fruit… But you’re right, it depends on you, and balance is always better than a strict restriction. Fruit is still on my diet, I just have caution with the amount and the frequency.
    You’re an inspiration, Kris… !!
    Hugs from Spain!

  15. Caroline says:

    Sugar is sweet and so is laughter, play and intimacy. Enjoy ALL the sweetnesses daily so the bittersome days don’t seem so soul crushing 🙂

  16. Kate Allen says:

    Thanks so much Kris 🙂 Finally an article about sugar that is balanced. Our Cells need natural natural sugar!! I own an organic cafe and market in Adelaide South Australia and I am saddened by how many people see fruit and veggies that contain natural sugar as the enemy. Obviously refined sugar is a completely different story – but the nutrients in foods that contain natural sugars is so important for great wellbeing x

  17. Heather says:

    Did you give up fruit sugar with your cancer? Or do you limit fruit? I’m a cancer survivor and people tell me I shouldn’t eat fruit even though I’m trying to go high raw and fruit is where the calories are. I have always been confused no matter how much I research it. It just seems to me like natural fruit and veggies are the way to go, I think 50/50 of each is good but some people make me feel bad about too many bananas in my smoothies. Even though I eat a ton of greens as well…..So confusing. 🙂 xo

    • Nicole says:

      whole fruits and veggies are the healthiest most healing foods on the planet and should always be consumed in abundance with no restrictions. if you are eating a lot of fruit with high sugar content and you are having a negative experience, try lowering your fat intake and that will help your body more easily digest and absorb the sugars.

  18. Bec says:

    Thanks for this Kris 🙂 Most people don’t realise how addictive sugar is. I eat a couple of serves of fruit a day but other than that, almost no sugar in anything I eat/ cook. Once I gave up lollies, chocolate etc, I wasn’t even tempted at all.
    In my work place is a lolly jar metres from my desk, plus scones, cake etc often on offer and I don’t even consider having any. I just don’t crave it at all, since I gave it up. Which goes to show how awfully addictive it is.
    Looking forward to investing in one of your books soon! 🙂 Love all your blog posts.

  19. Robin says:

    I recently met with an iridologist/nutritionist and she prescribed a yeast elimination diet for me. I have had a sweet tooth forever and would welcome any recipes for anything chocolate that is sugar, gluten, soy, gluten free, and without fruit with the exception of fresh berries. Also must be vegan! HELP?!

  20. Cassandra says:

    Thanks so much for all that you do and for all that you are. You have been a blessing to me and to my type 1 diabetic daughter who is now using your diabetic friendly recipes and guidance from the new book to juice. She is 21 this month and a nursing student in college. Her blood sugar has been hard to control recently but since she started juicing and eating a primarily vegan diet it’s become great. Her endocrinologist is on board with it and is excited about her desire and drive for self care. He said he wished more of his patients had her drive and dedication to be the CEO of their health destiny.
    I was diagnosed with Celiac and Candida the week before Thanksgiving. It feels good to finally have answers as I have been sick and searching for nearly 3 decades with clueless Dr’s. I now see a functional NP and she is the one who finally figured it out. I decided that trying to do gluten and sugar free the week before the holidays was a bad idea. I felt as if I’d set myself up for failure so I started on Sunday. I’m using stevia and xylitol as my sweeteners and have removed high sugar fruit/veg from my juices/smoothies for now. Your new book has been incredibly helpful. I juice daily for breakfast and lunch and eat a whole foods vegan diet. I’ll add a few of the lower sugar fruits/veg back in once the candida cleansing and healing is over but never plan to go back full force.
    By the way, I also have your meditation album and that has been a Godsend as well. I use it daily and have found it helpful during this sugar cleanse.
    We are sooo very grateful for all that you do and we keep you in our prayers and thoughts always.
    ((((((Love and hugs)))))))

  21. Tammy Morris says:

    Love your Crazy Sexy Juice! My eating habits are not 100%, but improving all the time. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

  22. Rachel says:

    I get addicted to sugar when I start eating refined sugar or artificial sweeteners tucked in some food, which is why I usually avoid them. I’m fine on the naturally occurring sugar in fruit though. When I’m going through sugar withdrawals (like, after Christmas for example) I will have tea with honey, or oatmeal with maple syrup, just to help beat the cravings. Usually I don’t need anything though (besides fruit!) and I like it that way. I find I can taste so many more flavors without it plus I have more energy!

  23. Liza says:

    The most effective thing I have done to reduce sugar cravings is follow a 80-90% plant-based diet. Once I stopped eating meat, dairy, and eggs on a regular basis, my intense sugar and fat cravings virtually disappeared!

    My theory: eating a plant based diet provides more natural sugars than I would allow myself to eat on the SAD diet. I used to restrict my carbohydrate and calorie intake to lose weight, but as a reaction to starvation mode, I would ultimately binge on processed sugar/fat.

    Now, I fuel up on frozen banana “nice” cream, dates, goji berries, dark chocolate, apples, blueberries…. you name it! Fruit is no longer a restricted food for me and as a result, I get all the warm and fuzzies my brain needs.

    I’ve lost 10 pounds since I started this approach in August and have managed to change my relationship with food and my body. I owe it to Kris and the supportive online vegan community!

    xo Liza

    • Maiysa says:

      Hello Kris! I am a schmanser patient (thyroid) but am clear of the C word. Yay! I am a healthy eater, but have mast cell disease (can’t eat most histamine foods due to anaphylaxis) and now own a diseased liver that includes too many cysts to count and fatty liver. But me likes me suga! Not in candy or processed, but I juice a few apples and carrots in my veggie juice and also eat a few dates a day. I added it up one day and it was almost 100 grams of sugar and read fructose is not good for the liver. I didn’t realize I was eating that much sugar a day. Am now on a low sugar band wagon, (also just found out I am pre diabetic) even though I am 5’6″ and weigh 118 pounds. Might be from the mast cell disease or the fruit I am thinking.) Anyhow, about how much sugar can one have a day? And do you try to keep yours under a certain amount? I find that if I don’t eat any, I get really sick as well, so I know i need some.
      Thanks!

  24. Gemma Rose says:

    Thank you Kris for setting the sweet record straight!
    Lots of love and blessings for 2016!
    Xo
    Gemma Rose

  25. Cantsay says:

    Sorry but that smoothie sounds disgusting. I’ll stick with my bananas.

    • Kris Carr says:

      There isn’t a smoothie recipe in this article, it’s a nut milk. And that’s all you got out of it? Disgusting? Let’s try to elevate the energy a bit around here, because the energy we bring to the online world truly matters. Best wishes, Kris

  26. Melanie says:

    Hi Kris… Great article..the whole concept of ‘it’s different for everyone’ is so true and also different at different times in your life. I used to be able to eat sugar of all types no problems, but now, even the slightest bit of processed refined sugar makes my brain turn slightly suicidal-quite scary really. When I’m sugar free I’m so much happier without even ‘trying’… I think if anyone is experiencing Depression I highly recommend try cutting sugar completely (even fruit at first then slowly introduce to see if you can handle it) and see they feel better…it’s a small price to pay for having a mind that has the ability to think clearly and positively. 🙂 xx

  27. Lynne says:

    Thanks for your informative article Kris – I too am dealing with cancer and have been since last October. Currently I am on chemotherapy and have been working on awareness in my diet – thanks to your amazing efforts and also my loyal and knowledgable sister Tina. For my mental health I try not to stress too much about what I am eating – try to eat as much organic food as I can afford and drink about 25 ounces of green juice daily (made up of mostly organic ingredients) – which by the way makes it possible for me to have NO SIDE EFFECTS (!) from the chemo. I am trying to change one small thing a week instead of doing it all at once.

    I am so glad that you addressed sugar today in your blog – as well as sharing your candid experience of your struggles with it – as sugar is a subject I have had some questions about. What I find so interesting is that of all of the doctors I have seen, not one has mentioned anything about diet – certainly not one has mentioned sugar and avoiding it if you have cancer – though they certainly make use of it when giving a PET scan – “The positron emission tomography (PET) scan creates computerized images of chemical changes, such as sugar metabolism, that take place in tissue. Typically, the patient is given an injection of a substance that consists of a combination of a sugar and a small amount of radioactively labeled sugar. The radioactive sugar can help in locating a tumor, because cancer cells take up or absorb sugar more avidly than other tissues in the body.” Well, hello – if that isn’t enough to make you want to quit sugar if you have cancer? Or perhaps lay off the sugar if you are eating lots of it?

    When the craving for sweet strikes, I usually eat an apple or have some raw cashews. Sometimes – on very rare occasions, I will allow a cookie, or a small piece of pie but generally stay away from all candy, gum, soda, etc. What is great is that the extra pounds have come off!

    I would like to add that I am so grateful for all the hard work you have done. It has been a life changer for me. Thanks so very much!

  28. Zuzana Spacirova says:

    Hi Kris, you often write just about the issue I am solving at the time. I have been thinking of the most important things over the past year. Here they are: 1.Neville Goddard teachings, 2.Kris Carr, 3.Matrix Energetics. I spent almost all Christmas holiday with my nose in CSJ, CSD and CSK (the last one came just before Christmas). I do appreciate your concern about the animal and planet wellfare which is not so common even in people who care about their health. Thank you for being who you are. Tons of love from moi and my animals

  29. I have been making the above mentioned recipe for some time and love it as is without straining it through cheesecloth or a nutmilk bag. Is there anything wrong with that?

  30. Back in the day when I was on a tear with some sweet treat and couldn’t stop eating it I’d put it in the kitty litter! or in soapy dish water!! That would stop me. Now I satisfy my sweet tooth with xylitol, which is actually good for your teeth (and low glycemic). I also make a nutrient dense sweet treat with 1 T (tablespoon) of coconut oil, one T mashed banana, one T cacao, half T of hemp powder, half T chia seeds, half T of almond butter, one T of chopped walnuts: I blend it all together and put in the freezer for about 15 minutes. It is delish!

  31. Annie says:

    I watched my mother try to solve her problem with chronic low energy and then develop adult onset asthma and painful arthritis in her early fifties. Then she read a little article about the inflammatory properties of sugars in the then new little health magazine, Prevention. She experimented with eliminating added sugars and eating only lower glycemic fruits and felt a positive change in days. In three months her asthma and arthritis were gone and her energy so improved she went back to school and got her master’s degree! She was so amazed she started informally studying all things nutrition. She died last year at 97 1/2, taking only one minor med for pain from post polio syndrome (she had polio in her thirties). In my early thirties I started to get some arthritis in my wrists. I followed her lead and 40 years later at 73, I still have no arthritis and take only one med, thyroid. I’ve learned over the years that my best diet is what might now be called Pegan–animal proteins (pastured, organic, humanely cared for), and otherwise vegan–I have tried to be a vegetarian twice in a conscientious, educated away and became terribly anemic, both protein anemic and hemoglobin anemic–some people can’t), tons of veggies, nuts, seeds, low glycemic fruits, no grains, no beans; Like my mom, I have a poor sugar and starch carbohydrate metabolism. I’m convinced after years of studying every nutrition angle I could find that the key to wellness is eating real, whole and preferably organic food, and figuring out the balances that best serve one’s bio-individuality. Love Chris Karr, her spark of life and wonderful wisdom.

    • Kris Carr says:

      Thanks Annie! x

      • Maiysa says:

        I loved Annie’s story about her mom also. That is inspiring about you and your mother. I hope my results are as good as yours at the three month mark. I have had some improvement, but it’s only been a few weeks. Will keep hoping for more improvements. And forgot to thank Kris for the great article. 🙂
        Maiysa

  32. I definitely have a sweet tooth and find that even if I try just ONE piece, I’m always craving more–AKA I’m addicted. I’ve tried to keep this “healthy” by using mints and gum, but I’ve realized this still fuels cravings. Coming to terms with the fact that just one piece still does damage is rough, but necessary–hoping to kick the habit in 2016!

  33. Kristy says:

    Great read! I avoid processed sugar. If it is all natural, I enjoy it freely!

  34. Samantha says:

    Thank you for this Kris. The last time that we met I asked you about sugar! I am so fearful of it, living with cancer, and yet… When you have issues with food and you’re diagnosed with cancer, at least for me, it’s not like all of my issues just magically disappeared. I still find comfort in a cupcake from time to time. I still crave soda (though went from drinking it daily to probably having 3 glasses a year). I’ve always struggled with my weight (mostly carbs, also living with PCOS) and though I’ve made some great changes, I’m still scared when a recipe calls for 2 bananas in my smoothie; will my cancer grow? If I have a piece of pie on Thanksgiving, will cancer take over my body? I know that I have to find what I’m comfortable with– that will be the right answer for me– but 2 + years into the diagnosis and I still struggle with it and feel guilty and worried and scared. I appreciate you reminding us that we each need to find our own way with this. You remain a true source of support, wisdom and strength for me and many others. xo.

  35. Janeen McCormick says:

    Thank you Kris. Your energy and wisdom is so inspiring for everyone. I started following you after being diagnosed with recurrent breast CA. I forward all of your emails to all of my friends who have an interest in living a really healthy life. I look forward to every communication and the interaction from other followers.
    Happy New Year!!
    Namaste!!

  36. Teresa says:

    I do have candida problem and have to be very careful with even sugar in high sugar fruit like bananas or dates.

    3 things I rely on for sweet taste are:
    Stevia (great in smooties, kefir and yogurt)
    Xilitol (in small amounts as it might cause stomach upset)
    Lacanto (zero calorie zero glacemic index superfood made of a monk fruit and Erithrol)

    You can bake with all 3 but Lakanto tastes and bakes just like brown sugar and has health benefits.

    I use it in my coffee and tea and as an over-all sugar substitute.

    It costs a bit more, but it sure it worth it!

  37. Jess Burford says:

    So timely! I just kicked off a 10 Day Sugar Detox with a group of clients. I have A LOT of questions about why I am ‘allowing’ them to eat fruits and starchy vegetables, even whole grains, lentils, and beans. Your post today says it all!! I so incredibly happy to have you on my side, fighting the good fight! You have make learning THE TRUTH about nutrition fun and easy! Thanks Kris! I’ll be sharing!

  38. Mojca says:

    Thanks so much for this Kris! There’s so much controversy about sugar. I’ve managed to more or less fully ditch processed sugar over the last year (only have it as cookies or some choc for holidays) and I mostly don’t miss it at all as there’s so many good alternatives that taste so much better than sugary stuff! Your chocolate almond milk is SO delicious too!! Love LOVE your CrazySexyJuice book, ALL the recipes are absolutely fantastic, it’s incredible you could come up with so many so outstanding ones! 🙂 You’re so creative and inspiring. Really made my year with it, I’ve been juicing and blending daily ever since the book came in October 😀 Keep up the great work you do and a very happy New Year from London! Xx

  39. Minnie says:

    Kris, my daughter bought me CRAZY SEXY KITCHEN about three years ago. I follow your regime closely. I have all of your books, including the new juice book. As a fellow survivor, I know you do diligence in your research. Thank you and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

  40. Yay! Sugar free is the best. Really cleared up my skin. I have hot chocolates made with stevia and almond milk as a treat.

  41. Joanne says:

    There’s no need discard the nut pulp – almonds are expensive. It’s loaded with fibre and is great for adding back into smoothies, or naturally sweetened gluten free muffins or brownies.

  42. Jen says:

    Since January I have been struggling with new food allergies all of a sudden. It started with fish (after I have eaten fish my whole life) and now seems to be sporadic. Doctors think I may have a mast cell disorder in which my mast cells randomly release too much histamine at once, wrecking havoc on my body and causing anaphylaxis. They have me taking 5 antihistamines daily (and sometimes more) but it has also caused quite a bit of anxiety for me. I would love to meet with a holistic doctor to figure it out, and eliminate the drugs. I hate pills, but I hate anaphylaxis more! LOL I try to eat very healthy, lots of juices, lots of veggies… but have severely restricted my foods in an effort to eat lower histamine foods. Would anyone have any suggestions, or doctors you recommend? I live in upstate NY..but am willing to travel.

    • Jen says:

      That was supposed to say since July…not January

      • Jody says:

        Jen, please go to Yasmina Ykelenstam’s website and you will be rewarded with a plethora of information regarding histamine intolerance. She is your gal.

    • Mojca says:

      Hi Jen,
      Did you move or changed environment in some way (work place etc.)? Might be any extra toxicity (not just in your food) that is stressing your body out so it doesn’t cope well with allergens anymore? I believe detoxing helps with allergies a lot. Just a thought, hope it helps. X

    • Jeannie Danford says:

      Hi Jen,

      You may want to research an allergy elimination technique called NAET-link to website https://www.naet.com/Patients/patientshome.aspx It has really been helpful to me and others I know. They test for over 1,000 possible allergies and clear them usually through acupuncture. Good Luck.
      Jeannie

    • Tara says:

      Try looking into BIE ( http://www.bieclinics.com) i believe there are some practitioners in the US, although the training takes place in Canada. It can help balance the mast cells and other things!

    • Kelly says:

      Hi Jen!
      Have you seen the documentary “Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead”? The man in the film has a condition that sounds pretty similar to what you mentioned! You can find it on Netflix!
      Best,
      Kelly

      • Maiysa says:

        I have to add to this, that I have mast cell activation also and the same Autoimmune Urticaria that Joe from Fat Sick Nearly Dead, has, only I was Thin Sick and Nearly Dead. 🙂 Autoimmune Urticaria for me was happened because the mast cell disorder had been untreated so my body created autoantibodies to attack the mast cells, but yet have no skin conditions like Joe, mine is more internal and on my organs. Reading Kris’s Crazy Sexy Diet was my food bible, although I found out I can’t eat a lot of the foods she does, because of high histamines, it was very very informative and helped me a lot!!!!! It helped me to know what to eliminate on top of the histamine foods.

    • Teresa says:

      Please find a good NAED doctor.

      They eliminate allergies to anything!

      I just went thru a series of 15 treatments that eliminated or diminished most of my allergies.

      They should remove not only the allergy to the specific allergen, but also an emotional blocks that cause allergies.

      Here is a website to the NAED doctor I used, she was excellent, and I did it over the phone (I am in NY she is based in Utah but treats at a distance:

      http://www.inharmonyhealing.org/

      Good luck!

    • Rachel says:

      It is my understanding that if you do have a mast cell activation disorder triggers are histamine rich foods. Fish is high in histamines and the amount increases the longer after the fish is caught. There are many other foods that fit this category to avoid. A good Gastroenterologist or immunologist can help with blood testing and a good ND can help you with diet and supplements to help.

    • Rachael says:

      Hi Jen,
      I have the same mass cell issues and have dropped all of my many antihistamines by seeing a ND. We do a lot of Vitamin IV therapy and it has been more helpful than the meds. A low histamine diet help too.

      Good luck!!

    • Maiysa says:

      Jen, I have had mast cell disorder for over 9 years and was 80% bed bound. I have a better quality of life, but still very ill, but somedays I do better than others. Changing my diet has been key, along with things as easy as getting rid of plants in the house, and toxic household cleaners, and staying in doors during pollen season. I don’t want to cut in on Kris’s blog, but if you have any questions feel free to contact me. Not sure how I can post that on here without having my email so public?

  43. Erin says:

    What do you think of stevia, xylitol, etc??? There seems to be a lot of varying opinions out there…… You posted a recipe for this caramel apple tart that had no added sugar in it and it was amazing!!! Even better with some cocount cream on it!

    • Lisa says:

      Stevia does not taste natural to me at all. It has a chemical taste to me and I want to like so bad. If I am baking, sometime I use coconut nectar and love that.

      • Hannah says:

        Try (green) whole leaf stevia leaves and powder ’em. Tastes SO much better than the processed stevia found on the store shelves. (Extracts that are clear and powders that are white are processed which is where the chemical aftertaste comes from)

        The powdered stevia leaves in its natural form do not dissolve as it’s chemically extracted counter part does, but I don’t mind knowing it’s in a natural form. Hope that helps!

      • andrea says:

        usually that weird bitterness means youre using way too much, use about a fourth of what you normally would with sugar – hope that helps!

  44. Jane says:

    I like this balanced approach. I cut out all sugars for a week but kept eating fruit and veg so took in sugars that way – I felt great, lost some weight, gained energy but I cannot sustain it in the long term. I try to be wheat-free but similarly, it is difficult to be zero-wheat every single day. I have similar experiences to your Ben and Jerry ice-cream where I have eaten artificially sweetened, high calorie rubbish to excess as if I have no willpower to stop. Thinking about what I eat in a mindful way must be the way forward but life has to be for living too! Refusing a piece of birthday cake offered to you by a four-year old? Nah!Everything in moderation.

  45. sybil says:

    Here is my background I have lymes, and a possible stage 0 breast cancer. I enjoy a cup of my very favorite cup of Chinese black tea every morning. I prefer it will a little cream and one teaspoon of sugar. I can and I have gone with out the teaspoon of sugar and I really prefer it just a little sweet. Any suggestions on how to do this and keep the taste as close to old fashion white sugar as possible?. I follow an Ayurveda diet mostly so honey is not an option as we consider heating honey not beneficial to the body. I can go with out the black tea I can go with out this teaspoon of sugar and I am looking for a healthy sweetener alternative. I agree with your philosophies and I am clear on the emotional spiritual value of a positive relationship with my healing and my food. this is why I am adding back my one cup of tea in the morning as it brings me much joy!

    • Liss says:

      I use Stevia in my coffee/tea. I have heard that is better for the body than sugar, splenda, or honey. I use Agave to sweeten my smoothies and as a syrup on my whole grain pancakes.

      • Gail says:

        Have you looked into Just like Sugar, it is made from chicory root, 0 sugar. I tried several different natural sugar alternatives and this one works for me and I like the taste. Best place I have found to get it is Vitacost.com. Hope this helps. You can use it any way you would use sugar, they also have a brown sugar, powdered and a good hot chocolate mix (my comfort drink).

    • Mojca says:

      Hi Sybil,
      There’s a great naturally sweet tea called Amacha (Japanese herbal infusion) that has a taste somewhere between honey and liquorice. It’s delicious and contains no sugar. I personally don’t like stevia so much as I find it leaves a strange aftertaste. So if that’s your case too and you want to avoid sugar completely, I’d suggest Amacha. As it’s tea it’s prepared hot anyways so it fits well in other teas. iit even has some traditionally recognised health benefits (anti-allergic and helps with high blood pressure). You can find it here: http://www.momochafineteas.com/Teas/herbal-tea/amacha-15g
      Hope this helps! x

    • Margaret says:

      Hi Sybil,

      It is my understanding that in Ayurveda the honey is not to be heated but can be added to hot tea. I boil my water, add to tea, then add almond milk, then lastly honey.

    • Kris Carr says:

      Hi Sybil, I think my other blog on sugar may be helpful in exploring some other sweet options. Check it out here: http://bit.ly/1OKlrLv xo, kc

    • Teresa says:

      Have you heard of Lakanto?

      It is a healthy 0 calories and 0 glacemic index sugar substitute.

      Tastes just like brown sugar and has health benefits.

      Here it is on Amazon:

      http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0079OL6T4?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00

      Good luck!

    • Marie-Josée says:

      I was gonna say stevia as well. Did you know it helps destroying the mucussy stuff in which the young lyme bacteria develops? I also have lyme and follow the main rules of ayurveda lifestyle. I have stopped though being very strict for great reasons. I would use honey, maple sirup, coconut sugar, stevia or regular organic cane sugar (but just a little). As you see, I slacked on the avoiding sugar at all cost regiment. Lyme healing is a long process and one must trust it, if you listen to yur self. I believe it is highly spiritual. I know I’m towards the end. I wish you the best!

    • Marie-Josée says:

      Oh, I just wanna add, when we crave sugar sometimes, it is because we lack of carbohydrates that is found in fruits.. The craving disappear gracefully just when eating fruits.

      Cheers!
      To your plates! (of fruits)

    • andrea says:

      one or two drops of pure stevia extract is a perfect sweetness for tea.

  46. Allison Modafferi Brewster says:

    I’m SO glad you covered this issue!! I lead a cleanse every January called the New Year (R)evolution, and understanding the difference between natural and refined sugars is always a hot topic. I’m sharing your blog with my cleanse group right now. Thank you for laying it out for us!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

KrisCarr.com