http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.html times health forum thread - Sugar-Free Wed, 03 Dec 2008 09:46:50 +0000 http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlWell done Carol - excellent sugar avoidance!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlWed, 03 Dec 2008 09:46:50 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlThanks for the link - I have got the email for the e-book and will take a look when I have more time - might give me food for thought while I am convalescing, literally!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlTue, 02 Dec 2008 20:44:31 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlJust had a thought Simone. How good am I. Got home tonight and Hubby had cooked a nice Lamb Hotpot. (healthy) Nicely full then he says I've got dessert too. It was Cheescake and I said no thanks you can have both slices. That's a bit less sugar for me then. I feel quite proud that I can turn it down so easily now. I then have to remind him that I cannot eat these kind of things very often. Carol...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlTue, 02 Dec 2008 20:04:12 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlI like the sound of this Simone. I already avoid cakes, biscuits etc, although I do indulge now and then. (Birthdays) I will look at this site, thanks for the info. Carolhttp://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlTue, 02 Dec 2008 19:56:55 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlHi Teresa. Yes I saw this - see page 2 of this thread. The reason I gave up sugar was because I kept bingeing on it so when I first gave it up I avoided high & medium sugar fruits (I have a list of high, medium and low sugar fruits if you're interested) simply because they would give me the taste for sugar and the whole craving would continue. Now almost 6 months on, I'm much more in control so have started introducing lots of different fruits although do mainly stick to the ...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlTue, 02 Dec 2008 11:16:14 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlHi Ann, Well Done on reaching your goal weight and staying sugar-free. It's SO hard to do and to have kept going with it like you have is brilliant. I been sugar-free since the end of June and I've lost 1 stone 4lbs . I love hearing it's possible from people like yourself and Barbara to do this long term. I also could never have just one biscuit or chocolate bar and knew this was my only option left to have a normal relationship with food. Great to hear from you Ann! Simo...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlTue, 02 Dec 2008 10:59:24 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlBarbara, I love it how being sugar free is now second nature to you - I am in control of it now but still have times where, although I never give in, I have to remind myself of why I'm doing this. It's inspiring to know that it is possible to keep this way for life. Your Christmas Cake recipe sounds lovely. Love the whole platter idea with the cheese and apple - such a Yorkshire lass! I don't like dried fruit so wouldn't go for it myself but would love to hear how you get o...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlTue, 02 Dec 2008 10:51:19 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlHas anyone watched the Tonight programme on sugar from last Friday - I've found it on the catch-up thing? I am tempted by the sugar thing, but I am a bit confused about fruit - a lot of that is high in sugar - is that still OK? It has other things in it that means you don't get the sugar hit like you would from processed sugars?...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlTue, 02 Dec 2008 08:13:50 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlHi I ahve not been on teh Times site for a while but I too went sugar free on 26th April 2007. I lost over 3stone and got to my goal weight in June this year. Continue with my healthy, sugar-free eating and have maintained since June..... I too could NEVER have one biscuit or one chocolate! Good Luck everyone Ann...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlTue, 02 Dec 2008 07:27:01 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlHi Simone You seem to be really in control now, I just had a peak at your ADVENT contribution! It sounds like you are really enjoying the alternatives you now have. I'm doing fine and I really don't have any issues with the sugar free, but I do occasionally use a bit of honey, as you know. Simone, I am going to try out a Christmas cake recipe that I have seen. I am not sure if it will work if I substitute honey for the sugar and put in less of it. This recipe just looks really inte...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlMon, 01 Dec 2008 23:07:49 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlThink there is only you and I on SF Barbara! How is yours going anyway?!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlSun, 30 Nov 2008 22:00:35 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlJust popped onto the Sugar-Free to see if there is anyone in need of any support - and glad to see the level has stayed completely serious as ever! Looks like you are all doing well.http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlSun, 30 Nov 2008 12:26:10 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlToo old for you pal http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlSun, 30 Nov 2008 11:58:58 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlQuoting: maisie2a large juicy date helps me to get over a comfort crisis ! What's his name then!!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlSun, 30 Nov 2008 11:34:54 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlSometimes a large juicy date helps me to get over a comfort crisis !http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_2.htmlSun, 30 Nov 2008 10:55:45 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlQuoting: sstimesonlineIt's The Times' Amanda Ursell on the show! Missed it! And it's not on "catch up" yet. http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlFri, 28 Nov 2008 21:09:12 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlLovely aren't they. It's The Times' Amanda Ursell on the show!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlFri, 28 Nov 2008 20:17:18 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSim I have tried these JNakd bars and they are lovely. I occasionally like the cacao onehttp://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlFri, 28 Nov 2008 20:14:25 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlOoh the 'Tonight ' show has just started on ITV all about sugar addiction - this should be good... Silly though - they are giving the addict chocolate made from artificial sweetener - but this still gives you the taste for it!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlFri, 28 Nov 2008 20:07:49 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlI can also recommend Nak'd bars ( Tescos and some health food shop). These are raw wholefood bars with no sugar or artificial sweeteners - just the sugar from dates, raisins, strawberries, raspberries etc. I love the Berry Cheeky ones and also the cacao ones. Yum!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSun, 19 Oct 2008 19:19:47 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlI've discovered 'Super Jam' ! It contains no sugar or artificial sweeteners and is only sweetened with grape juice. It's lovely! I got it from Waitrose but think you can get it everywhere now.http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSun, 19 Oct 2008 18:58:44 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlYou are all such great support! I went and played Monopoly with littl'un to take my mind off things!! Am fine now! I know what you mean Jackie - I work with teenagers with profound learning difficulties and they never cease to teach me something about humility and the important things in life. Looking forward to seeing them again after the hols....http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSat, 30 Aug 2008 20:16:35 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlQuoting: jackieathetimeshealthcoukBut to take a few miniutes out from rushing round to speak to them, Jackie, you sound like a lovely person and I'm sure they will appreciate the time you can give them.http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSat, 30 Aug 2008 20:03:01 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlQuoting: susanreedHusband drinking red wine with dinner. B*****D Just think of all the calories your not having, when I stay of binging on the plonk I loose weight, and am not bloated. I feel better for it as well. Quoting: susanreedas am starting to climb the walls! I find that it's all in the mind Sue, I find that if I do something I'll forget about it. Pigging out on it doesn't do you any good, I know from experience. A couple of years ago I lost my licence, and the 10...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSat, 30 Aug 2008 19:39:12 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlI know it sounds daft but hen I know the urge is on to binge I chew gum. Hate the sight of people chewing gum but if it is in your mouth you will not want to put anything else in. You have been really good on the a......l fron Sue; i dare not say the word.http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSat, 30 Aug 2008 19:02:30 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlHusband drinking red wine with dinner. B*****D! We will be strong though Natalie! I need to find something to do now though, as am starting to climb the walls!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSat, 30 Aug 2008 18:47:08 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlIf it makes you feel any better Sue, I'm abstaining this weekend.http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSat, 30 Aug 2008 18:21:02 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlQuoting: susanreedI inadvertantly rammed an After Eight into my mouth without even thinking ... absolutely excusable - we all did! Quoting: susanreedAm proud to report that no alcohol passed my lips. We can vouch for that - Highland Spring water!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSat, 30 Aug 2008 18:08:32 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlThanks Natalie. hubby has just poured a beer so have come online to keep me away from the gin! For goodness sake keep me talking! LOLhttp://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSat, 30 Aug 2008 17:43:27 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlQuoting: susanreedthen another! Just to be polite! LOL But well done on no alcohol. You deserve a big clap for that.http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSat, 30 Aug 2008 16:45:38 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlAARGHHH! Whilst gassing to Fiona, Jackie and Cally at our Ab Fab lunch, I inadvertantly rammed an After Eight into my mouth without even thinking! Didn't like to spit it out on the floor and show myself up, so swallowed it, then another! Big oops! Back on sugar free now. Am proud to report that no alcohol passed my lips. Big pat on the back as that is most out of character for me in a pub!...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlSat, 30 Aug 2008 16:40:34 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlThanks for the support girls. Didn't touch the kids sweeties tonight either! I'm feeling quite elated tonight - no sugar, booze or anything! Am feeling far more full of energy than usual - just signed up for our local wildlife conservation trust!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlFri, 29 Aug 2008 19:58:35 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlWell done Sue - that's brilliant going. You can do this - we are right behind you all the way xhttp://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlThu, 28 Aug 2008 21:33:18 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.html , Sue!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlThu, 28 Aug 2008 20:52:25 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlDoing well with the sugar free - but to make it real I've given up alcohol too - day three of this - so far so goodhttp://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlThu, 28 Aug 2008 19:29:04 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlNo, that's the sad bit!! http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlTue, 26 Aug 2008 14:06:57 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlsorry. Ryvita, rice cakes, grapes and celery. Does that sound better?http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlTue, 26 Aug 2008 14:03:10 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlWell done Sue - sounds like you did well. I'm skimming over your post Cally as don't want images of anything you spoke about in my head!!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlTue, 26 Aug 2008 14:00:18 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmldid share a sticky toffee pud with husband on birthday. Defrosted 1/4 of victoria sponge and was very good as split between the children and resisted. mind you, was very cross when son gave part of his to the dog who had just pinched someone elses and was in bad books. http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlTue, 26 Aug 2008 13:57:59 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlManaged to stay relatively sugar free over the weekend, but am sorry to say I had sugar in a brandy coffee without even thinking! Had had a few tequila's before, so forgot about being sugar free. Back on the wagon now.http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlTue, 26 Aug 2008 13:29:57 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlI don't think you can eat too much fruit Cally - it always better than a calorie laden alternative. The only reason I'm fairly strict with it is because I'm a complete sugar addict and the higher sugar fruits are best avoided for me - although I am allowing myself the odd grapes here and there! Yes it's amazing how your taste bids change isn't it Cally. Cutting the cakes, biscuits, choc etc has really helped the weight drop off for me but even just cutting down would ...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlTue, 26 Aug 2008 11:19:02 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlQuoting: Sparky67Most fruit has more than 4g of sugar per 100g I think that i eat too much fruit as i snack on plums, grapes and bananas. hey are quick and easy. When i wanted to eat chocolate last night i found a packet of dried cranberries where I usually have a hidden chocolate bar and that does very well. My downfall is home cooking as I sometimes bake cakes and traybakes 'for the boys' and am the worst nibbler. My husband is skinny and puts the Kit Kats (at my request) on the...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlThu, 21 Aug 2008 19:53:46 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlQuoting: fionacatrionairon-willed If I were iron-willed, I wouldn't need to lose weight now, would I? This part isn't iron will, it's choice. You can believe me on this. Maybe it's tight fisted; it cost £2 less. http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlThu, 21 Aug 2008 19:39:39 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlQuoting: FranHI don't think I have a particularly sweet tooth ... what was really funny at the London Night Out was that we unanimously chose lemon sorbet from the choice of delectable and calorific desserts - except the iron-willed Barbara who said no!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlThu, 21 Aug 2008 17:50:51 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlThanks for your advice Simone. I've gone a whole day sugar free now - brill! Will weigh in tomorrow as I think I've lost since I came back from holiday. I needed something new to focus on to kick start things, and this is just the job, especially coupled with Exercise in August.http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_1.htmlWed, 20 Aug 2008 20:57:05 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlBarbara can help us through tough times aswell - she has 15 years experience!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlWed, 20 Aug 2008 19:49:26 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlThat's what I've found - a lot of products are high fat or high sugar. I just stick to Total 0% now and chop fruit into it. Sue, well done on having the fruit instead - brilliant! What I do at those 'tired' times (mid-morning or mid afternoon for me) is make sure I have protein. A cracker with Philly light / watercress and a few slices of ham / a mini babybel light with some cucumber. These are the times I used to reach for sugar too but the protein trick really does work....http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlWed, 20 Aug 2008 18:31:33 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlQuoting: susanreedI was amazed to see how much sugar was in a low fat fruit yoghurt! Some fruit yogurts are horrendously high in sugar. I have Muller Vitality as (as flavoured yogurts go) it's not toooo bad, and tastes really creamy. I tend not to go for the low fat ones as I think they just take out the fat and put sugar in instead. Vitality isn't necessarily the lowest calorie yogurt out there, but it is satisfying. Remember though that yogurt will be high-ish in sugar bec...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlWed, 20 Aug 2008 15:14:20 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlI was amazed to see how much sugar was in a low fat fruit yoghurt! Had some greek natural yoghurt, but full fat and this was quite high in sugars too! It's been the 4 o'clock low energy time when I've gone for a piece of flapjack, only to realise that I must usually satisfy this tired bit with sugary snacks, which then can lead to binging. Have had some fruit instead and feel fine!...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlWed, 20 Aug 2008 15:06:49 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlExcellent - well done! I'm right behind you all the way xhttp://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlTue, 19 Aug 2008 20:47:55 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlOK Simone - you're on! I've even just announced it to the family so that's it!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlTue, 19 Aug 2008 20:33:30 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlBrilliant - it would be great to be doing it with someone else! See how you feel. Also give it a week and your taste buds will be starting to change. After a while fruit is sweet enough on its own - honestly! I don't like honey - but that could be a great natural substitute for you. Oh yes keep me updated on the treatments - be lovely to take our minds off anything tempting!...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlTue, 19 Aug 2008 19:58:44 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlYes, we do have good homecooked meals, and I hardly eat any sugar, except when I go into binge overdrive! Then I consume chocolate biscuits by the dozen! Thanks for the article. If I went sugar free, it would not give me the option then to binge on sugary treats - I would have to binge on something else! I agree about fruit and yoghurt - I like Yeo Valley Fat free Nat Yoghurt, but up to now, have always cooked fruit compote with sugar. Will have to try without or with a spot of honey. I have so...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlTue, 19 Aug 2008 19:53:10 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlHere is the article Sue. I've found it really helpful. It talks about the deficit you may feel - which is an excellent excuse to find pampering type ways to fill it! I've had to get into home cooking even more as lovely home cooked food becomes so important - so this would be second nature to you with all your lovely recipes! After a while it really does feel like you're looking after yourself. Anyway here is the link: http://www.firstourselves.com/first_ourselves/2008 /01/ho...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlTue, 19 Aug 2008 19:41:09 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlGo for it Sue - the first 3 or 4 days are a bit of a challenge and you could always try it for two weeks or something. It was my binge food of choice too - because I don't binge on 'normal' food it's making the weight loss go more smoothly and it also makes following the general rules of PM much more easy. I'll post a good article all about it for you. It certainly seems like my only way of having a more relaxed and normal relationship with food. Good luck if you try it ...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlTue, 19 Aug 2008 19:31:53 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlSimone - this seems to have transformed things for you! I'm seriously thinking of giving it a go, as sweet things are my binge food of choice, and I would like that to stop!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlTue, 19 Aug 2008 19:15:14 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlI always had trouble with ketchup and dressings, dolloping loads on my plate - but there's so much hidden sugar. I went for a lovely roast lunch and added so much cranberry sauce that it was half meal and half dessert. Tonight I made homemade chips (made with low-fat spray of course) with a piece of fish and I made a tomato ketchup substitute. 3 tomatoes, chopped quite small, one spring onion, chopped, malt vinegar and a level tablespoon of dried mint. Malt rather than balsamic as balsam...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlTue, 19 Aug 2008 18:57:37 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlQuoting: RelapsedAnd why not log on and tell us all about your frustration and pains when they hit you? That might replace the comfort food to some extent. Excellent advice Barbara.http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlMon, 18 Aug 2008 22:24:35 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlHi Chong and Barbara Like Simone, I just don't feel that I am in anyway qualified to comment on such specific medical issues as I have not experienced them myself, known anyone who has or read about them even. I think Simone's advice to check again with medical staff is a good one to follow and also, as she says, to go onto a busier thread so that you might that way get in contact with others with more knowledge or experience in the areas you are talking about. Barbara, are yo...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlMon, 18 Aug 2008 21:47:30 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlHi Barbara and welcome. I don't have much knowledge about your condition but hopefully someone else has some info for you. You may be interested in a group called AbFab that many of us are members of - it's very active and chatty and well worth a look! Good luck with keeping your comfort eating at bay....http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlMon, 18 Aug 2008 14:38:47 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.html[I [i]wonder if anyone else has helpful tips for someone arthritic, re-occurring spinal probs over 60 and who has to avoid certain acid fruits that don't mix with medication, not just diet but exercise, I've got hiking poles which help and MBT trainers but as soon as the ol' sciatica or spasms come on in neck I despair and guess what I want, what I really want??? yep comfort food, especially when tablets don't work. Thanks [imgs]http://www.your-url-to-image-here.com/image. jp...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlMon, 18 Aug 2008 10:09:50 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlMany congratulations Simone. I was really interested to read how you have cut out sugar as this is something I have been thinking about for a little while. After years of sweeteners in tea I have managed to cut those out and whilst I don't think I have a particularly sweet tooth I can binge from time to time on chocolate, cake and biscuits - and that is a real downfall. I too would have eaten Emily's brownies in one go!! Keep up the good work Simone and I look forward to trying out s...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlMon, 18 Aug 2008 09:25:11 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlQuoting: drechungWow, that's incredible. I wish I could be as disciplined as you!!! (she says, having made a big batch of brownies) But I would have probably eaten them in one sitting until I felt fuller than after Christmas dinner!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlMon, 18 Aug 2008 08:22:25 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlChong, I've not heard of that condition - maybe it's worth a trip back to you GP to ask a few more question on changes you should make to your diet. Can anyone else hepl? Julia, you're so right that is the best bit - it really was such a burden as I had to have some every day. It was making me really unhappy and I wanted to feel happier - so simple - wish I'd done it years ago! Thanks Julia x...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlMon, 18 Aug 2008 08:17:29 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlQuoting: Relapsedand the most difficult part was really how to deal with other people's desire to feed me something sweetened Do you know Barbara you are so right with that! I've encountered a few birthdays and occasions since and those times can be more difficult. I've found that the cravings, like when we are cutting back on other unhealthy food groups are always short lived and then when you've come out of them you know you've done the right thing. I love it how you...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlMon, 18 Aug 2008 08:12:44 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlSim, you are amazing! I am so impressed with your resolve for the choice you have made. Was it really the end of June?!!? The weight is certainly great news, but somehow it's more, because you sound free of something that has trapped you for so long. Am really delighted!http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlMon, 18 Aug 2008 08:05:50 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlI ve recently been diagnosed with impaired glucose intolerance ( IGT ), my gp s prognosis is to have another blood test on a year s time . . . . . . surely . . . . Can anybody suggest an altenative course of action?http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlMon, 18 Aug 2008 01:02:58 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlA completely honest answer to this, Simone, is that if I felt I wanted to sweeten something when fruit wasn't an option, I'd add a bit of honey. Never very much of this as taste changes when you no longer eat synthetically processed sweeteners. Purists will say that honey is processed too, which it is, and that's another reason for keeping its use low. Honey produces a different consistency in baked food, so it isn't always an option either. Within a short space of time I w...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlSun, 17 Aug 2008 22:09:52 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlWow, that's incredible. I wish I could be as disciplined as you!!! (she says, having made a big batch of brownies)http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlSun, 17 Aug 2008 22:01:17 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlYes, it is more the processed sugars although most of the time I stick to low/low to medium sugar content fruits: http://lowcarbdiets.about.com/od/whattoeat/a/whatf ruit.htm Just so as not to tantalise my tastebuds too much! Though the higher sugar content ones are obviously miles better for you than a chocolate bar so won't worry too much!...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlSun, 17 Aug 2008 21:47:25 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlYes I often think of the fact that you did it for 15 years Barbara - and it really keeps me on track - completely amazing. Did you find any alternative recipes during this time? It's a real quandry of mine to find a recipe to make up for the deficit with out making something tasty that I will gorge on instead! Suppose that's where the Paul McKenna theory kicks in!...http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlSun, 17 Aug 2008 21:36:33 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlThat's great news - 10.5 pounds off is great! I guess you are talking about avoiding processed sugars? Most fruit has more than 4g of sugar per 100g (and many are three or four times higher) but they don't give you such a sugar hit because of the additional fibre etc in it?http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlSun, 17 Aug 2008 21:34:14 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlYep, all support and congratulations possible to Simone. Really, really well done on this wonderful journey. Any doubters out there? Have faith, it can be done and it can make your life so much better. Health, vitality and happiness will be your reward.http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlSun, 17 Aug 2008 21:29:44 +0000http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlI went sugar free at the end of June and thought I'd post some of the recipes and products that have eased me through it! I've cut out all chocolate, cakes, biscuits, sweets etc - all the obvious stuff and on labels I'm following a guide of 4g per 100g. Basically I'm trying to avoids food that taste sweet which will then trigger a craving so I've also given up sweeteners in drinks. This evening for a dessert I had a pancake, fried in a few squirts of low-cal spray....http://www.timeshealth.co.uk/6_1224_0.htmlSun, 17 Aug 2008 21:10:20 +0000