I cut out all alcohol and 80% of my sugar consumption this summer, and it's incredible how I've been able to cope with physical and emotional stressors this year. Honestly incredible. Tbh the sugar and alcohol isn't worth my sanity
It's a vicious cycle for me. When I feel down or anxious I crave refined sugar, which then makes me feel worse , causing me to want more sugar. Not giving in to the cravings, when you're a comfort/stress eater, is a daily struggle for me.
Okay, holy shit. The mood thing you’re talking about…I experience the exact same thing. Something that I just recently became aware of that was a huge game changer for my mood and especially my mental health, is NUMBING. And one way I would numb was with sugary foods/sweets. I tried going no sugar added multiple times, but always failed to stick with it (or any diet change). I couldn’t stick with it tho because I hadn’t looked at WHY I craved those things in the first place. When I realized I was numbing my feelings by using food to soothe myself-TOTAL GAME CHANGER.
Hi Alex 👋 I have been on anti depressants for 27 years! I have them changed every few years as they do lose their effectiveness. Im also refined sugar free but its for fibromyalgia more than my depression. My doc has said ill probably need meds for the rest of life and im fine with that. It is what it is and doing this online is brave and you should feel proud that youve spoke your truth. You are beautiful inside and out and i love watching you 💗xx
@doom3798 Hi there. I'm in the UK so it may have a different name but I take 150mg of sertriline. I've been taking these for over 2 years now but I feel they are still working. Good look honey and best wishes from me. 💗xx
It's a known thing called SSRI poop-out. They get less effective after about ten years. The solution is just to switch to another one.. I've been on zoloft 9 years and am watching for this.. prozac will be what i ask for next. It's an oldie but goodie. For me taking an ssri makes me want less sugar. So I don't cut out sugar to treat my depression and anxiety, I treat my depression and anxiety to cut out sugar.
I suffered from severe postpartum depression after the birth of my son. I would lie in bed and sob, just literally sob, while holding my son. I remember feeling so confused and thinking that this should be the happiest moment of my life, so why am I feeling depressed? My ob/gyn prescribed me Paxil and within a few days I felt so much better. It was like a light switch was flipped in my head. Now antidepressants certainly aren't for everyone, but it helped me tremendously.
I had chronic migraines for years. I kept a food journal while tracking migraines. I noticed processed foods we’re always right before a migraine. I eliminated them and the migraines decreased and eventually stopped. I am now able to have some processed foods now and then, because yes, sometimes I get a craving.
I also used to suffer from migraines and vertigo - cleaning up my diet along w lifting weights is what saved my ass. I still struggle some with headache but it’s not debilitating anymore
A couple months ago I started eating sausages with cheese in them for breakfast just to get the extra protein to keep me full until lunch time. It took a few weeks of feeling like absolute shit; extreme groginess, lethargy, brain fog, snacky to realize it was the sodium in the sausages that was fcking me up and immediately cut it out. Its crazy how as you get older you REALLY gotta watch what you eat cus it WILL affect you for the day/longterm
I'm badly addicted to sugar. I'm also an alcoholic and i didn't have a drink for over 12 years now. I want to reduce my intake of sugar but i find it so hard! I think i'll have to cut it completely, like the alcohol. I'll watch your video on healthy snacks. Give me ideas. I'm also trying to cook more. I've always loved cooking but since the pandemy, anxiety and depression got out of control. That's sad because i felt that i had it under control before. So i was on leave for 3 years, i couldn't see my people, was living alone and had bad ideas if you know what i mean. I never ate so bad in my life and that's when i gained the more weight that i can't seem to lose. Anyway, healthy life choices comes together i think in a healthy life style. I keep trying. The fact that you're on that journey for several years so far encourage me. Thank you so much for sharing!
I remember watching your first video about sugar and gave it a go. It's been probably 10 months of ups and downs and learning and what works and doesn't. It absolutely causes massive issues for my mental health and I struggle greatly with my food diet. You have helped me to drop over 15kg so far and looking to double it and improve my quality of life. Thank you for the continued videos. I appreciate it.
My husband and I cut down on sugar and both us could tell how much happier we felt so we went a lil further I love pasta so we were eating it every week now it’s once a month but even every two weeks watching how many carbs we eat our inflammation goes way down. He has a lot of joint issues and I don’t have the best digestion but it really has made such an incredible difference just playing with our diet to try to feel better.
I left gluten, lactose and sugar just recently (3 months ago) and my life quality has improved so much. I felt those happy feelings again that had been lost for years. I feel you Alex ❤ It is a journey but the rewards were seen in a week already. I had a lot of brain fog and head aches and groggy mornings before I did this...
Feeling like an addiction is so accurate lol I’ve been on antidepressants for 24 years and it’s the only way I can exist. Thank you for making this video. It’s nice knowing that even someone as confident, talented, and put together as you understands not only the struggle of anxiety… but also the struggle of owning a cat 😂
@doom3798 don’t mind at all :) My meds have changed quite a few times over the years. Started with Paxil and currently on Prozac & Wellbutrin. It’s hard when you don’t have a baseline for “normal”, so you can’t really tell when you’re on the right meds- until suddenly you are.
I gave up sugars (and all sweetners, because they keep the cravings going) a couple years ago. Life changing! Look up bright line eating for some interesting reading.
Upping protein can definitely help with sugar cravings. Making your own gluten-free sweets with coconut sugar or monk fruit got me through. I myself am definitely going back to a gluten-free, sugar free diet. Did that for two years and have been off of it for a year and I can’t do this anymore. I can tell it affects my mental health and I have dark circles and puffiness under my eyes all the time! Best wishes to you!
The science behind this specific way you consume ur foods is probably that you are insulin resistant. A lot of people are and don't know it. I would go get some tests done to check! I am the same way. It helps your body process sugars better.
i grew up without processed foods because of food sensitivities and i still struggled with mental health issues but i underestimated my food SO MUCH when i went to college. at college i would eat like shit and i’d be like oh okay WOW this affects my mood, my productivity, everything. i’m 19 so i’m back home for the summer but i’ve been feeling so much better with the food i’m eating and i’m planning to meal prep more this coming year.
Been struggling so much with my mental health and been using food for comfort and mking everything so much worst 😢 thank you for sharing this it motivates me to make some much needed changes for the sake of my health
I had a liver transplant 4/19/22. Food is medicine ❤. If I eat poorly my joints hurt, my belly bloats and my face is hella puffy. It is true what you said. You wake up feeling good when you cut out processed foods and excess salt and sugar. Much ❤
i love that this video showed up in my recs because I have been considering removing sugar out of my diet aswell. I would love to see a video about what your diet is like now. I feel like everything has sugar these days and it can be difficult to transition.
I so relate. And now that we know how much the gut bacteria affect mood, it makes total sense. Changing to a whole food plant based no added salt, oil, or sugar has been Life changing for me. Finding non-food things to replace all of the “It’s blah occasion, so I want ” was fairly difficult, but totally worth it. I read a book called “The Holy S#%t Moment” that talked about how changes tied to identity are the ones that happen on a dime and stick. For a friend of mine, I remember him saying, “Ellie’s dad doesn’t smoke.” He dropped cigarettes the moment he had that thought. For me, it wasn’t that ‘easy’, but as I started actively looking for things in my day that were beautiful, good, happy, etc., I was able to install the identity of ‘person who finds joy/solace/celebration in non-food things. Also have been able to drop a blood pressure medication and have dropped 30 pounds (despite menopause and all it’s joys) without Ever being hungry.
I am one year sugar and flour free! I am so happy with the decision I made. And thank you Alex for talking about this and opening the conversation. Love when non-nutrition influencers talk about their struggle with these substances
Removing most of refined sugar has done wonder for my mental state. Much less headache, clearer mind and much better outlook in life. I am glad you got this message out to your million of subscribers.
I have had anxiety my whole life. having gone very low sugar and carbs and all decaf. has lowered my anxiety dramatically . It's a life long ordeal. Thank you for sharing. It's nice to know I'm not alone.
Before I was diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety/depression I used to self medicate with caffeine and processed carbs. Once I started taking medication, my intake on those things have drastically gone down. I still have sugar here and there but I definitely feel better when I don’t eat it in excess. This video was 100% relatable
I've been trying so hard to eat better and take better care of my health. My mental health has always struggled and I am losing the effectiveness of my antidepressants. I'm not sure i could ever gove up sugar. It brings me such joy. I admire your willpower
Alex thank you for being vulnerable. Anxiety was my companion since I was a teenager (I’m 59 now) and I’ve definitely noticed a spike when I eat a lot if refined white sugar. Focusing on fruit instead, especially during the 3 o’clock witching hour of cravings, shooed away the butterflies with claws on them in my belly. Best description I know. The linked video on how you weaned off sugar is GREAT! The permission to bulk up on natural sugar (fruit) first and allow it to be a process is validating. Raisins help me (just a quarter cup at a time.) Thanks for the freedom message. You look brighter for sure. 💜💜💜
I have been told to cut sugar for my arthritis and so far I diminished it now and then I would indulge. I never connected it with my moods though. I will pay attention. Thanks Alexandra. Love watching your channel, you tout le a lot.
The part of your dialogue that resonated the most with me was "so this is what everyone else feels". I'm bipolar and when I finally got on the right medication (took 3 yrs) it was like a light bulb. I was so shocked that this was the way everyone else saw things. It was like a fog lifted. I've found sugar exacerbates my mood instability so yeah ... cutting out sugar is a positive. I've fallen off the sugar wagon recently and I'm working to get back on. Best of luck on your journey!
I could probably cut it if I didn’t “need” a coffee in the morning. I tried honey instead of sugar for a minute and it sucked, but I got used to it. I ran out of honey and went back to sugar and never got more honey. This is my sign to go back to honey. ❤
I validate you feelings. I fully believe you can do it. You already did it, so there’s no doubt you can do it again! Your first video finally helped me quit added sugar (massive chocolate fan here). I haven’t eaten it in a month and I’ve lost like 10 pounds in a matter of weeks. YOU GOT THIS also, you are simply beautiful. Had to add that🥰
Oh and also for me when it comes to sugar it is TRULY COMPLETELY WITHOUT A DOUBT FULL ON ADDICT BEHAVIOR!! But when I have succeeded for a few weeks, it's always my skin that shows improvement!!!
Yessss! My daughter found this out by accident when the whole house went low carb. Depression and anxiety went almost completely gone. And lost over 80 lbs. It is the devil
You are bang on with this info. I just came back from holiday where I ate what ever I wanted. Hit with depression and serious anxiety as soon as I got home and returned to my usual diet. Took 2 weeks to recover 🤷♀️
The sugar situation is so real! I tell people I am allergic to refined sugar because the reactions my mind and body have to it feel like pretty severe reactions akin to an allergy. I still eat refined sugar here and there (a muffin at a coffee shop, a piece of cake at a wedding, etc.), but for the most part, I have cut it out of my diet. What's wild too is that I used to be a pastry chef, so I had to regularly try the goods I was baking. It really wasn't until I quit the industry and was able to stop taste-testing that I started to really notice the effects it had on my skin. I've now been off sugar for almost 8 years, and when I do eat it, I can really feel the effects it has on my mood and overall well-being. My sleep is also absolute sh*t. I'm so glad you shared this video! It's nice to know others out there are like me, too. I also really appreciate your honesty about slipping up in the future. This is an ongoing process, and there will be times we just can't help ourselves. But just believing that we live our lives sugar-free helps keep us on track for when we do slip up.
Thank you so much for this video and speaking about depression and anxiety. I have been struggling for the past few months even with medication and I just feel so alone. This video helps me feel I’m not alone x
I couldn’t agree more. I spent years on a medical Keto diet. (Not Pinterest all you can eat bacon and weirdo coconut oil in coffee shit 🤢) Fell off the wagon for a year and my mental health went to shit. Migraines came back, brain fog, depression, anxiety, pain in my everything. Hair falling out. Jumped back on a week ago and now past the worst of the adjustment and starting to wake up.
Thank you! It is important to keep an open dialog about depression and mental health, so that individuals are more apt to seek help. When you said you eliminated dairy without much of a problem, I was envious. Dairy is the only monkey I can't get off my back. I have at least decreased the amount I was consuming, but have been unable to completely eliminate it. But, I shall keep trying! 😊
Ооооо я смогла перевести на русский описание к видео, чудо. У тебя такие красивейшие мейки и очень добрые душевные комментаторы, получаю удовольствие и потихоньку учусь понимать английский. Спасибо❤
I def can relate to this . I will be doing great and then have a craving , think it’s ok to indulge in it and then my mood is affected later. Usually I will not realize it’s related to the sugar or bad eating I’ve been doing at the time. Thank you for this !
Hey Alex girl!! I love your videos. I was just wondering if you could do a tutorial on how to work w cream/ liquid eyeshadow. Hope you you see this, take care!
This makes complete sense. Refined sugars particularly cause you to have ups and then downs with energy and chemical reactions in the body and especially in the brain. It's basically overcoming an addiction, only most don't think of it that way. Because it is not looked at as illegal. I'm a nurse so I've gained some knowledge on this. Just wanting to 100% back you up on this! 💜😊
Another thing to keep in mind… stay away from Aspartame if you are noticing mood instability or severe cravings. Drinking Diet Coke will send me on a carbohydrate binge as well as instantly causing depression/anxiety.
It's so cool how you can talk about this topic in such a positive, supporting way! I love these videos where you just chat and share some snippets of your life/opinions/thoughts/experiences... I don't each too much processed food or refined sugars. Yes, I'm one of those annoying healthy eaters -- but your girl knows how to make food taste good, so I never leave parties/get-togethers with leftovers (somewhat sadly). What I notice that really affects me (both emotionally and my skin) is a lack of sleep. Dang, when I was in my 20s, I could sleep like 14hrs straight. Now, I struggle to get 6 hrs combined! It SUCKS. And when I get less than 6hrs total, my skin just looks lifeless (and I'm much more irritable and anxious, though my daily exercise routine does help me some there) -- and I have weird sweet cravings that I don't usually get (as I generally crave more crunchy or salty than sweet or creamy).
I'm starting to watch. The topic is VERY hot because an hour ago I threw most of the already opened sweets into the garbage. I know sugar is bad for me. Before the pandemic, I was fine, I had good results. I have been eating sweets a lot for a year and all of a sudden I have stones in my gall bladder and more in my kidneys. I also had depression and my anxiety got worse. It's much better when I avoid simple sugar. I feel hyperactive and anxious when I eat too many sweets during the day. Anything unnatural in the diet is bad. I must add that since childhood I have been struggling with anxiety neurosis too, for no apparent reason, my fears of going to sleep are getting worse. When I eat sugar, I feel even worse. You are right and thank you for this video, you timed it perfectly.
I want to thank you for opening up about your mental health journey. I have lived with mental health issues my whole life from a trauma based childhood. Being an influencer, as you are, and lending your voice to this extremely maligned topic matter is Hugh! Sugar...yes diet plays a big role in maintaining stability. Anti-depresents...yes, must be changed up, rotated on a regular basis. Talk therapy, good psych and support system all help. Thank you Alex for being real and transparent on this topic. Much admiration, and hugs❤️ Alice (Mental Health Survivor & Advocate).
Wow I’ve never thought of cutting processed foods to improve your mood! I knew of the chemicals to preserve the food though, so that makes sense in terms of interfering with the neurotransmitters in the brain. I did drink Kefer milk (more cultured milk with probiotics) and I noticed a GREAT difference within a DAY. Gut health is SO important and very overlooked in terms of physical/ mental health.
Bro I appreciate you sharing this so much. I cut it out for years and felt sooooooo much better. It’s crept back into my life but getting back to it. Everything you said was spot on. Good job ❤️
I've been on a journey through sugar addiction for about 5 years now. I find completely cutting it out the easiest way instead of say giving myself a tiny amount I can eat each day. I do have the very odd treat and I find that works because in my mind I'm thinking, this is it, no more after today until say this next time we are out or it's someone's birthday or whatever it might be. It really is amazing how addictive sugar is. I always feel better, more energy, happier, level emotions instead of the ups and downs when I don't consume it. I feel your pain! I just keep thinking of how much better I feel when I don't have it :) Good luck and thank you for sharing your journey with us ❤
I’m the same way! I can’t give in or I have the hardest time getting back on track. This year I jacked up my diet so hard but I’m actively trying to get back on track. My eating and state of mind seem to really go hand in hand also but I also have anxiety super bad. I can’t relate very much so to this video.
100% this needs to be addressed by every esthetician, dermatologist, MUA, etc. Great topic and thanks Alex for sharing your skin experience. ❤ I had acne as a teen on my back. That is usually where I will show any allergic reactions to something I’ve eaten. And as a kid and teen I ate ALOT of sugar. In some ways I think it halted my thinking process and stifled my educational progress. I craved it and my moods were all over the place. Processed chips and Gatorade were my go to for dealing with academic stress. Sad news is I gained weight and the flavorings added (powder) to the chips messed up my thyroid glad. I had to go on thyroid meds to correct all kinds of damage just by eating junk and processed foods and sugary snacks. By the time I hit 19 I was walking in a brain fog for most of the day and couldn’t retain anything. Suffice it to say I cleaned up my diet and purged junk out of my life (for the most part). Went to a wedding last week and I had tea and skipped the cake and it didn’t even bother me. Last night celebrated a friends’ bday and had 2 spoons of ice cream cake and I was done. For anyone going through the addiction and trying to pull away, it’s a serious journey. Every time you faulter, just re-commit to doing better. You have to build a memory of yourself being successful in this area to not be bothered by removing sweets.
That isn’t exactly true that what you need is protein it’s just that protein is more satisfying. Your gut microbiome dictates cravings and blood sugar lows sometimes will make you want carbohydrates or lack of metabolic flexibility.
Thanks for sharing this Alexandra. My sister is the same way with sugar. She does these sugar fasts where she will stay a month without sugar and then have it once and then not have any for a month or two. She says she sees the same benefits that you mentioned. Mostly her skin and feelings. Something that helps me a lot is going on morning walks EVERY SINGLE DAY for an hour. I also try not to look at my phone first thing in the morning. But my walks are a must for me. A clean diet is also a must. I was very very depressed and suicidal and once I stopped eating fast food and ate more homemade whole foods it went away. Praying also helps me when I have anxiety for no reason. Thanks for talking about your experience. These topics are important.
I think this is a huge important message for parents. Really try to limit your kids' intake of sugar. We call my youngest (7) a hummingbird because, if I let her, she would live on sugar. I really try to fill her up with apples, oranges, watermelon (in the summer). I know it's still sugar, but I feel like it's better than M&M's and Popsicles.
Any fruit is safe, it is sugar but the way our bodies process fruit is totally different than refined sugars. Obviously anything is excess is bad, but you've to really try when it comes to fruit
Fruits come with water, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and fiber. The fiber slows the rate of absorption of the fructose so you’re much less likely to have a sugar rollercoaster ride.
ahhh I relate so much. I’ve been diagnosed with and treated for every anxiety disorder under the sun (panic disorder for example) and now adhd, ocd. I’ve had a similar timeline to u with it. I’m glad this is working for you and I hope you and your doctor(s) continue to find a plan for you !!
Alex, I'm taking a nutrition course right now and what you're saying about how you feel makes a lot of sense with what I'm learning about how your body processes carbs. It's very interesting to learn about how timing and the molecular structure of the sugar plays into everything too. I'm listening to this while I'm on a walk 😇
Your experience with sugar really does sound like an addiction. Just as someone who deals with addiction myself, and being interested in the subject, it sounds so similar to being addicted to drugs or alcohol. You even said “I’m so jealous of people that can indulge here and there and not ruin their life” (not verbatim I don’t remember the exact words used). But yeah. Super interesting to hear your experience.
Ugh, so relatable! I always thought I ate rather well (vegetarian, lots of home-made meals, lots of veggies and fruit), except for my penchant for sweets, but a while ago, I stumbled across a few interviews with scientists on UA-cam who talked about genetic disposition towards obesity and how ultra-processed foods affect our microbiome and how that, in turn, affects EVERYTHING about our bodies, and it was pretty eye-opening. I had assumed I was just too weak to resist chocolate and cookies and ice cream, but it turns out that cutting out all ultra-processed foods and drastically reducing refined carbs killed off my cravings literally overnight and massively improved my energy levels and mood. (I’m more on the depresson side of things…) I combined this change in diet with an intermittent fasting regimen (I try to eat all my food in no more than 10 hours, usually 6-8) and I can’t even begin to tell you how life-changing that was/is!!! It’s such a relief to not have to resist the temptation of late night icecream anymore because I already decided that dinner marks the end of my eating window. I practically don’t snack anymore (and if I do I usually stick with nuts), I’m not hungry, I’m not tired, it’s fantastic! I never thought I could pull this off, but once I knew which switch to flick, it was actually easy. I can only recommend.
Yay, so happy people are waking up to how terrible refined sugar is! I remember people thought I was crazy doing Keto/Low Carb, but more research has confirmed it’s helpful for depression and anxiety! Hoping everyone has their own happy, healthy, health journey ❤️
Thank you. You are right about the Internet being toxic and sugar is not our friend.😢 I work in an office and candy, donuts, snacks of all varieties are always plentiful. Fortunately, I happen to like fruits and vegetables so if I remember to bring them, I have a better day. As far as the Internet, watching your videos, watching videos about cooking, anything but the news definitely makes a difference. I appreciate your honesty. It’s easy to think that you’re just beautiful and blessed with a perfect life. Life is tough for all of us but sharing our weakness is a way to become stronger. Bravo!
Thank you so much for talking through your mental health, and never apologise for it! I think it's important people like yourself with a large following normalise talking about it so others feel comfortable doing so themselves and fear it less. I've been struggling with depression and anxiety most, if not all my life and I never really contemplated refined sugar having much of an effect on it, but it does make a lot of sense and I feel motivated to try this myself after hearing you mention it so fingers crossed and thank you so much for sharing!
I love that you tackled this issue publicly. So many people don't comprehend that sugar is the tastiest poison we all consistently expose ourselves to, and it's also the most difficult addiction to kick. (Just an FYI - Lab rats that were fed cocoaine to the point of becoming completely addicted actually rejected the drug in favor of sugar. It's THAT addicting.) I'm like you in that quitting sugar has to be an all or nothing situation. I once managed to avoid all sugar for a total of 27 days before I made the mistake of enjoying a single square of dark chocolate, which retriggered the cravings and insanity. My primary challenge in life is trying to break the cycle of sugar addiction, and over the years I've given up nearly all processed foods, but it's hard, especially since I'm a stress eater. My husband and I own a business, and I raise poultry (over 60 chickens right now), and I grow much of our food and our chickens' food...all in the hope of improving our overall nutrition and dietary habits, but some days are just so damn hard and it's to easy to just pick up a pizza. That's literally all it will take to trigger the cravings. So stay strong, keep fighting the good fight, and I promise you that you're not alone in this endeavor. And thank you for this and all of your other videos. I only recently found you here on UA-cam and have been watching your videos almost obsessively and have learned so much from you. I think you have a brilliantly creative mind, an utterly charming personality, may actually drop more F-bombs than I do 😂, and somehow have actually gotten even prettier and more beautiful as the years have progressed. And as much as I love your makeup videos, it's content like this video that actually gives me the most hope and joy because I reminds me that I'm not alone in realizing that things like sugar are a real problem.
Alex, you get me. Officially my absolute favorite internet lady. Not just mega talented but brave and brutally honest. I appreciate you even more now. ❤
I’m day 3 into cutting out all refined sugar. I’m not successful with cutting back so I have to cut it out. I have noticed an increase in anxiety over the last few months and never made the sugar connection so now I’m even more pumped to be off it for good. Thank you for sharing 💜
Alex, thank you for talking about your mental health. There is a scientific study which was performed on babies. Keys were jingled in front of each baby, some didn't react and others overreacted. Anxiety is innate. Sleep paralysis absolutely sucks especially when you have to pee. And of course, when stuffed animals are coming to get you.
You have motivated me to give it a try! i have tried NUMEROUS times unsuccessfully.. i have joked (but it’s true for me) that getting off sugar has been harder than getting off benzos. i have an autoimmune disease, and i’ve read a lot that sugar does NOT help. i’m tackling being better at gluten free this month 🤞🏼 .. so maybe i’ll try reducing sugar next month. i hope you continue to do well 🫶🏼
I can relate to having life-long anxiety. My first experience with sleep paralysis was also at a young age. When I was 10, I got shingles so bad, the rash covered one side of my torso in a ribbon shape from my belly button to the top of my spine. All this because I was so overcome with excitement and emotion over a family road trip to Disneyland. Worst pain I’ve ever experienced. I guess I just wanted to reach out to say I get it. You’re not alone! I admire your fortitude to quit added sugars completely. I’ve tried similar strategies but it seems that is not the path for me. It added more stress and unhappiness to my life. Anyway, just wanted to tell you I think you’re a strong person and very self aware, and it’s great you are sharing that part of who you are with all of us on similar journeys. So thank you!
I cut out added sugar like a light switch in November and I still cannot believe the difference in how I feel mentally, physically, emotionally, all of the ly’s! It affected me in ways that I didn’t even realize and thought was just my hand in life. I am happier and healthier in every single way. Thanks for sharing your always awesome thoughts about this!
I love this video and so happy you are talking about this. I struggle every day with sugar and I wake up saying I’m not going to have any. I also have anxiety and am on medication for it. Yes sugar multiplies my anxiety and I have no energy. I’m looking forward to more videos from you on this subject and your makeup videos. Keep up the good work ❤
I’ve been wanting to cut out sugar but have been failing and feeling not great about myself bc of it but the fact that you said it took you years to be successful made me feel so much better. It’s a difficult thing to cut out
I have GAD , I cut out alcohol a year ago, and keep sugar to a minimum. I do intermittent fasting and I run. That's the things that work for me to keep me sain. That combined with antidepressants. just antidepressants wont do the job for me. I also have adhd and this is so important for me to not go crazy. It can make such a difference 🙏
My story is similar and at 50 and going through menopause it’s gotten worse. I feel like absolute garbage when I over indulge and it’s as though I’ve been partying all weekend and I’m trying to recover from a massive hangover, so far from the truth lol. We’re all human and we all fall short sometimes, you’re not alone. Take care ❤️🩹
Alex, this is a timely video, thank you for sharing! Sometimes I need these reminders because I have that same addict-like behavior with sugar. It isn't extreme, but having a little sugar every day adds up, especially for us sensitive people - and honestly probably most people. The effects of sugar are detrimental for everyone, there aren't any real nutritional or physiological benefits, but it's been normalized in our society because of the ease of access and abundance of it. I did a year and a half with no sugar, from fruits as well (berries were ok on the list) and caffeine, as well as any starchy vegetables that metabolize to sugar quickly - and I've never felt so energized, alive, and happy. Caffeine is another difficult one and I didn't notice a decrease in anxiety for a couple months - but it's pretty clear that both caffeine and sugar have highly adverse effects on my physical and mental well-being. Thank you again for making this video, I really needed to hear what you had to say. Lots of love, your pal from NH!
I did cut processed foods and sugars out for a good stretch, then had a family loss and let my depression take back over. I appreciate that you are just sharing and not recommending really. I feel so seen with how you described a lot of the back and forth, not seeing the results you wanted, and experimenting. Approaching this with kindness to yourself was refreshing and I think something that was good for me to hear as I consider a new journey myself. Feeling great is the best motivation! All the best to you as you continue on your journey.
Hi Alex, love your channel :)! I wanted to share my own experience with cutting out sugar/elimination diets because it actually made my anxiety much worse. I began to be terrified of eating any foods that fit under the "bad" food lists and started developing orthorexia tendencies (eating disorder). I really appreciate you acknowledging that most people don't need to cut sugar out completely and can actually enjoy it in moderation. I really want to make sure people are mindful of not demonizing certain foods and while videos like these can be very informative, they can actually be triggering for those with eating disorders, such as myself.
It's really refreshing and cool to hear you speak about this. Thank you ❤ I'm very addicted to sugar. Everything I eat and drink have some type of refined sugar.
Dude are you me ? Our stories with anxiety and depression are so similar 😭. I did some "no sugar months" in my life since hightschool because I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it. The first 3 days are the hardest. After that, it's cool. The more time passes, the easier it becomes. And you notice fruits and things like that have a more sugary taste. The hardest thing for me was not battling my own brain, it was bearing the comments of other people. For the random people, not eating sweets = being on a diet = wanting to lose weight. And wanting to lose weight when you're already underweight like me = being anorexic (because people don't know what being anorexic really means). So not only is temptation everywhere, but also people who says things like "you can allow yourself to eat that, with how skinny you are !", giving me side eyes and asking intrusive questions. So I don't do it when I have to eat at work for example. Though in my new work I don't have to eat there, so I should do "no sugar month" again
I cut out all alcohol and 80% of my sugar consumption this summer, and it's incredible how I've been able to cope with physical and emotional stressors this year. Honestly incredible. Tbh the sugar and alcohol isn't worth my sanity
Amazing! Well done you! 💗
Same, it has made such a huge difference for me
@denverbusinessestateplanni9621 💗
Same for me. If I do eat chocolate it's always the next day the anxiety depression terrible feelings. But why ?
It's a vicious cycle for me. When I feel down or anxious I crave refined sugar, which then makes me feel worse , causing me to want more sugar. Not giving in to the cravings, when you're a comfort/stress eater, is a daily struggle for me.
Okay, holy shit. The mood thing you’re talking about…I experience the exact same thing. Something that I just recently became aware of that was a huge game changer for my mood and especially my mental health, is NUMBING. And one way I would numb was with sugary foods/sweets. I tried going no sugar added multiple times, but always failed to stick with it (or any diet change). I couldn’t stick with it tho because I hadn’t looked at WHY I craved those things in the first place. When I realized I was numbing my feelings by using food to soothe myself-TOTAL GAME CHANGER.
Hi Alex 👋 I have been on anti depressants for 27 years! I have them changed every few years as they do lose their effectiveness. Im also refined sugar free but its for fibromyalgia more than my depression. My doc has said ill probably need meds for the rest of life and im fine with that. It is what it is and doing this online is brave and you should feel proud that youve spoke your truth. You are beautiful inside and out and i love watching you 💗xx
@doom3798 Hi there. I'm in the UK so it may have a different name but I take 150mg of sertriline. I've been taking these for over 2 years now but I feel they are still working. Good look honey and best wishes from me. 💗xx
@doom3798 💗 anytime! Xx
thank you for sharing
@@undercovermaria1 💗
It's a known thing called SSRI poop-out. They get less effective after about ten years. The solution is just to switch to another one.. I've been on zoloft 9 years and am watching for this.. prozac will be what i ask for next. It's an oldie but goodie. For me taking an ssri makes me want less sugar. So I don't cut out sugar to treat my depression and anxiety, I treat my depression and anxiety to cut out sugar.
I appreciate when you talk about this- you aren’t trying to teach or preach, just sharing your experience one person to another.
exactly. everyone is different and it is nice to hear other experiences sometimes they relate and we can learn something.
I suffered from severe postpartum depression after the birth of my son. I would lie in bed and sob, just literally sob, while holding my son. I remember feeling so confused and thinking that this should be the happiest moment of my life, so why am I feeling depressed? My ob/gyn prescribed me Paxil and within a few days I felt so much better. It was like a light switch was flipped in my head. Now antidepressants certainly aren't for everyone, but it helped me tremendously.
I had chronic migraines for years. I kept a food journal while tracking migraines. I noticed processed foods we’re always right before a migraine. I eliminated them and the migraines decreased and eventually stopped. I am now able to have some processed foods now and then, because yes, sometimes I get a craving.
Exactly my experience! Home food & quitting sugar, lactose and gluten made a big difference for me!
Dang, You gave me a legitimate reason to keep a food journal now, I get Migraines ALL the time.. I will have to see if that helps!
I also used to suffer from migraines and vertigo - cleaning up my diet along w lifting weights is what saved my ass. I still struggle some with headache but it’s not debilitating anymore
Also a migraine sufferer. Damn. Now I have to cut sugar and keep a food journal. : ). Thanks for the push!
A couple months ago I started eating sausages with cheese in them for breakfast just to get the extra protein to keep me full until lunch time. It took a few weeks of feeling like absolute shit; extreme groginess, lethargy, brain fog, snacky to realize it was the sodium in the sausages that was fcking me up and immediately cut it out. Its crazy how as you get older you REALLY gotta watch what you eat cus it WILL affect you for the day/longterm
I'm badly addicted to sugar. I'm also an alcoholic and i didn't have a drink for over 12 years now. I want to reduce my intake of sugar but i find it so hard! I think i'll have to cut it completely, like the alcohol. I'll watch your video on healthy snacks. Give me ideas. I'm also trying to cook more. I've always loved cooking but since the pandemy, anxiety and depression got out of control. That's sad because i felt that i had it under control before. So i was on leave for 3 years, i couldn't see my people, was living alone and had bad ideas if you know what i mean. I never ate so bad in my life and that's when i gained the more weight that i can't seem to lose. Anyway, healthy life choices comes together i think in a healthy life style. I keep trying. The fact that you're on that journey for several years so far encourage me. Thank you so much for sharing!
I’m a sugar freak… and sugar is a highly addictive drug. It’s harder for me to stop sugar then stop smoking (which I did last year)
Yeah same. 😂 Quit heroin 12 years ago. Quit smoking a year and a half ago. Still highly addicted to sugar. 🤦♀️
@@Observette is it bad that i wanna try heroin
I remember watching your first video about sugar and gave it a go. It's been probably 10 months of ups and downs and learning and what works and doesn't. It absolutely causes massive issues for my mental health and I struggle greatly with my food diet. You have helped me to drop over 15kg so far and looking to double it and improve my quality of life. Thank you for the continued videos. I appreciate it.
My husband and I cut down on sugar and both us could tell how much happier we felt so we went a lil further I love pasta so we were eating it every week now it’s once a month but even every two weeks watching how many carbs we eat our inflammation goes way down. He has a lot of joint issues and I don’t have the best digestion but it really has made such an incredible difference just playing with our diet to try to feel better.
I left gluten, lactose and sugar just recently (3 months ago) and my life quality has improved so much. I felt those happy feelings again that had been lost for years. I feel you Alex ❤ It is a journey but the rewards were seen in a week already. I had a lot of brain fog and head aches and groggy mornings before I did this...
Feeling like an addiction is so accurate lol
I’ve been on antidepressants for 24 years and it’s the only way I can exist. Thank you for making this video. It’s nice knowing that even someone as confident, talented, and put together as you understands not only the struggle of anxiety… but also the struggle of owning a cat 😂
@doom3798 don’t mind at all :) My meds have changed quite a few times over the years. Started with Paxil and currently on Prozac & Wellbutrin. It’s hard when you don’t have a baseline for “normal”, so you can’t really tell when you’re on the right meds- until suddenly you are.
I gave up sugars (and all sweetners, because they keep the cravings going) a couple years ago. Life changing! Look up bright line eating for some interesting reading.
Upping protein can definitely help with sugar cravings. Making your own gluten-free sweets with coconut sugar or monk fruit got me through. I myself am definitely going back to a gluten-free, sugar free diet. Did that for two years and have been off of it for a year and I can’t do this anymore. I can tell it affects my mental health and I have dark circles and puffiness under my eyes all the time! Best wishes to you!
The science behind this specific way you consume ur foods is probably that you are insulin resistant. A lot of people are and don't know it. I would go get some tests done to check! I am the same way. It helps your body process sugars better.
I am gluten, dairy and sugar free now bc I don't want to feel like I'm dying:)
@@elizabethstephens8801 I did exactly this, and it has been a life saver!
i grew up without processed foods because of food sensitivities and i still struggled with mental health issues but i underestimated my food SO MUCH when i went to college. at college i would eat like shit and i’d be like oh okay WOW this affects my mood, my productivity, everything. i’m 19 so i’m back home for the summer but i’ve been feeling so much better with the food i’m eating and i’m planning to meal prep more this coming year.
Been struggling so much with my mental health and been using food for comfort and mking everything so much worst 😢 thank you for sharing this it motivates me to make some much needed changes for the sake of my health
I notice how Less puffy I am when I avoid sugar and processed foods, I really try to avoid that type of food. And I do feel much better all around.
I had a liver transplant 4/19/22. Food is medicine ❤.
If I eat poorly my joints hurt, my belly bloats and my face is hella puffy.
It is true what you said. You wake up feeling good when you cut out processed foods and excess salt and sugar. Much ❤
i love that this video showed up in my recs because I have been considering removing sugar out of my diet aswell. I would love to see a video about what your diet is like now. I feel like everything has sugar these days and it can be difficult to transition.
I so relate. And now that we know how much the gut bacteria affect mood, it makes total sense. Changing to a whole food plant based no added salt, oil, or sugar has been Life changing for me. Finding non-food things to replace all of the “It’s blah occasion, so I want ” was fairly difficult, but totally worth it. I read a book called “The Holy S#%t Moment” that talked about how changes tied to identity are the ones that happen on a dime and stick. For a friend of mine, I remember him saying, “Ellie’s dad doesn’t smoke.” He dropped cigarettes the moment he had that thought. For me, it wasn’t that ‘easy’, but as I started actively looking for things in my day that were beautiful, good, happy, etc., I was able to install the identity of ‘person who finds joy/solace/celebration in non-food things.
Also have been able to drop a blood pressure medication and have dropped 30 pounds (despite menopause and all it’s joys) without Ever being hungry.
I am the same way. Added sugar affects me so much, from weight gain to low energy and mood swings. Its so hard to quit :(
I am one year sugar and flour free! I am so happy with the decision I made. And thank you Alex for talking about this and opening the conversation. Love when non-nutrition influencers talk about their struggle with these substances
Removing most of refined sugar has done wonder for my mental state. Much less headache, clearer mind and much better outlook in life. I am glad you got this message out to your million of subscribers.
I have had anxiety my whole life. having gone very low sugar and carbs and all decaf. has lowered my anxiety dramatically . It's a life long ordeal. Thank you for sharing. It's nice to know I'm not alone.
Thank you Ms. Alex. You have Great Style. I believe dark chocolate cuts sugar cravings. Shine- on!🌹
Before I was diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety/depression I used to self medicate with caffeine and processed carbs. Once I started taking medication, my intake on those things have drastically gone down. I still have sugar here and there but I definitely feel better when I don’t eat it in excess. This video was 100% relatable
I've been trying so hard to eat better and take better care of my health. My mental health has always struggled and I am losing the effectiveness of my antidepressants. I'm not sure i could ever gove up sugar. It brings me such joy. I admire your willpower
Alex thank you for being vulnerable. Anxiety was my companion since I was a teenager (I’m 59 now) and I’ve definitely noticed a spike when I eat a lot if refined white sugar. Focusing on fruit instead, especially during the 3 o’clock witching hour of cravings, shooed away the butterflies with claws on them in my belly. Best description I know. The linked video on how you weaned off sugar is GREAT! The permission to bulk up on natural sugar (fruit) first and allow it to be a process is validating. Raisins help me (just a quarter cup at a time.) Thanks for the freedom message. You look brighter for sure. 💜💜💜
I have been told to cut sugar for my arthritis and so far I diminished it now and then I would indulge. I never connected it with my moods though. I will pay attention. Thanks Alexandra. Love watching your channel, you tout le a lot.
I’m a total nutrition nerd so this made me love your channel that much more yessss
This was the final push I needed!! Thank you for the real talk on mental health ❤
The part of your dialogue that resonated the most with me was "so this is what everyone else feels". I'm bipolar and when I finally got on the right medication (took 3 yrs) it was like a light bulb. I was so shocked that this was the way everyone else saw things. It was like a fog lifted. I've found sugar exacerbates my mood instability so yeah ... cutting out sugar is a positive. I've fallen off the sugar wagon recently and I'm working to get back on.
Best of luck on your journey!
Love these videos you make. Hearing from you about lifestyle that is based in health but not in a off-putting way, but more of a holistic loving way
I could probably cut it if I didn’t “need” a coffee in the morning. I tried honey instead of sugar for a minute and it sucked, but I got used to it. I ran out of honey and went back to sugar and never got more honey. This is my sign to go back to honey. ❤
I validate you feelings. I fully believe you can do it. You already did it, so there’s no doubt you can do it again!
Your first video finally helped me quit added sugar (massive chocolate fan here). I haven’t eaten it in a month and I’ve lost like 10 pounds in a matter of weeks. YOU GOT THIS
also, you are simply beautiful. Had to add that🥰
Oh and also for me when it comes to sugar it is TRULY COMPLETELY WITHOUT A DOUBT FULL ON ADDICT BEHAVIOR!! But when I have succeeded for a few weeks, it's always my skin that shows improvement!!!
Yessss! My daughter found this out by accident when the whole house went low carb. Depression and anxiety went almost completely gone. And lost over 80 lbs. It is the devil
You look AMAZING Alex!!!!!
You are bang on with this info. I just came back from holiday where I ate what ever I wanted. Hit with depression and serious anxiety as soon as I got home and returned to my usual diet. Took 2 weeks to recover 🤷♀️
You are a very bright spot on this planet, bro. Thank you for being awesome. ❤️
The sugar situation is so real! I tell people I am allergic to refined sugar because the reactions my mind and body have to it feel like pretty severe reactions akin to an allergy. I still eat refined sugar here and there (a muffin at a coffee shop, a piece of cake at a wedding, etc.), but for the most part, I have cut it out of my diet. What's wild too is that I used to be a pastry chef, so I had to regularly try the goods I was baking. It really wasn't until I quit the industry and was able to stop taste-testing that I started to really notice the effects it had on my skin. I've now been off sugar for almost 8 years, and when I do eat it, I can really feel the effects it has on my mood and overall well-being. My sleep is also absolute sh*t.
I'm so glad you shared this video! It's nice to know others out there are like me, too. I also really appreciate your honesty about slipping up in the future. This is an ongoing process, and there will be times we just can't help ourselves. But just believing that we live our lives sugar-free helps keep us on track for when we do slip up.
I notice a huge difference when I eat less processed foods, recently I have been trying to eat way more fruits and veggies vs buying a meal pre-made.
The latte trend has to be one of my favourite makeup looks, you killed it! As soon as I saw the your makeup I was hoping you did a video!
I get you. Thank you for the transparency... it helps people! ❤
Thank you so much for this video and speaking about depression and anxiety. I have been struggling for the past few months even with medication and I just feel so alone. This video helps me feel I’m not alone x
I couldn’t agree more. I spent years on a medical Keto diet. (Not Pinterest all you can eat bacon and weirdo coconut oil in coffee shit 🤢) Fell off the wagon for a year and my mental health went to shit. Migraines came back, brain fog, depression, anxiety, pain in my everything. Hair falling out. Jumped back on a week ago and now past the worst of the adjustment and starting to wake up.
Thank you! It is important to keep an open dialog about depression and mental health, so that individuals are more apt to seek help. When you said you eliminated dairy without much of a problem, I was envious. Dairy is the only monkey I can't get off my back. I have at least decreased the amount I was consuming, but have been unable to completely eliminate it. But, I shall keep trying! 😊
Ооооо я смогла перевести на русский описание к видео, чудо. У тебя такие красивейшие мейки и очень добрые душевные комментаторы, получаю удовольствие и потихоньку учусь понимать английский. Спасибо❤
It's really awesome that you're speaking about this. Needed to hear this. truly. Thank you.
I def can relate to this . I will be doing great and then have a craving , think it’s ok to indulge in it and then my mood is affected later. Usually I will not realize it’s related to the sugar or bad eating I’ve been doing at the time. Thank you for this !
Hey Alex girl!! I love your videos. I was just wondering if you could do a tutorial on how to work w cream/ liquid eyeshadow. Hope you you see this, take care!
Thank you for opening up about this topic. You are going to help so many people 🍭
This makes complete sense. Refined sugars particularly cause you to have ups and then downs with energy and chemical reactions in the body and especially in the brain. It's basically overcoming an addiction, only most don't think of it that way. Because it is not looked at as illegal. I'm a nurse so I've gained some knowledge on this. Just wanting to 100% back you up on this! 💜😊
Another thing to keep in mind… stay away from Aspartame if you are noticing mood instability or severe cravings. Drinking Diet Coke will send me on a carbohydrate binge as well as instantly causing depression/anxiety.
It's so cool how you can talk about this topic in such a positive, supporting way! I love these videos where you just chat and share some snippets of your life/opinions/thoughts/experiences... I don't each too much processed food or refined sugars. Yes, I'm one of those annoying healthy eaters -- but your girl knows how to make food taste good, so I never leave parties/get-togethers with leftovers (somewhat sadly). What I notice that really affects me (both emotionally and my skin) is a lack of sleep. Dang, when I was in my 20s, I could sleep like 14hrs straight. Now, I struggle to get 6 hrs combined! It SUCKS. And when I get less than 6hrs total, my skin just looks lifeless (and I'm much more irritable and anxious, though my daily exercise routine does help me some there) -- and I have weird sweet cravings that I don't usually get (as I generally crave more crunchy or salty than sweet or creamy).
Great advice Alex, this is definitely something I'll take on board. PS your skin is flawless
I'm starting to watch. The topic is VERY hot because an hour ago I threw most of the already opened sweets into the garbage. I know sugar is bad for me. Before the pandemic, I was fine, I had good results. I have been eating sweets a lot for a year and all of a sudden I have stones in my gall bladder and more in my kidneys. I also had depression and my anxiety got worse. It's much better when I avoid simple sugar. I feel hyperactive and anxious when I eat too many sweets during the day. Anything unnatural in the diet is bad. I must add that since childhood I have been struggling with anxiety neurosis too, for no apparent reason, my fears of going to sleep are getting worse. When I eat sugar, I feel even worse. You are right and thank you for this video, you timed it perfectly.
I want to thank you for opening up about your mental health journey. I have lived with mental health issues my whole life from a trauma based childhood.
Being an influencer, as you are, and lending your voice to this extremely maligned topic matter is Hugh!
Sugar...yes diet plays a big role in maintaining stability. Anti-depresents...yes, must be changed up, rotated on a regular basis.
Talk therapy, good psych and support system all help.
Thank you Alex for being real and transparent on this topic.
Much admiration, and hugs❤️ Alice
(Mental Health Survivor & Advocate).
Wow I’ve never thought of cutting processed foods to improve your mood! I knew of the chemicals to preserve the food though, so that makes sense in terms of interfering with the neurotransmitters in the brain.
I did drink Kefer milk (more cultured milk with probiotics) and I noticed a GREAT difference within a DAY. Gut health is SO important and very overlooked in terms of physical/ mental health.
Bro I appreciate you sharing this so much. I cut it out for years and felt sooooooo much better. It’s crept back into my life but getting back to it. Everything you said was spot on. Good job ❤️
I've been on a journey through sugar addiction for about 5 years now. I find completely cutting it out the easiest way instead of say giving myself a tiny amount I can eat each day. I do have the very odd treat and I find that works because in my mind I'm thinking, this is it, no more after today until say this next time we are out or it's someone's birthday or whatever it might be. It really is amazing how addictive sugar is. I always feel better, more energy, happier, level emotions instead of the ups and downs when I don't consume it. I feel your pain! I just keep thinking of how much better I feel when I don't have it :) Good luck and thank you for sharing your journey with us ❤
I’m the same way! I can’t give in or I have the hardest time getting back on track. This year I jacked up my diet so hard but I’m actively trying to get back on track. My eating and state of mind seem to really go hand in hand also but I also have anxiety super bad. I can’t relate very much so to this video.
100% this needs to be addressed by every esthetician, dermatologist, MUA, etc. Great topic and thanks Alex for sharing your skin experience. ❤
I had acne as a teen on my back. That is usually where I will show any allergic reactions to something I’ve eaten. And as a kid and teen I ate ALOT of sugar. In some ways I think it halted my thinking process and stifled my educational progress. I craved it and my moods were all over the place. Processed chips and Gatorade were my go to for dealing with academic stress. Sad news is I gained weight and the flavorings added (powder) to the chips messed up my thyroid glad. I had to go on thyroid meds to correct all kinds of damage just by eating junk and processed foods and sugary snacks. By the time I hit 19 I was walking in a brain fog for most of the day and couldn’t retain anything. Suffice it to say I cleaned up my diet and purged junk out of my life (for the most part). Went to a wedding last week and I had tea and skipped the cake and it didn’t even bother me. Last night celebrated a friends’ bday and had 2 spoons of ice cream cake and I was done. For anyone going through the addiction and trying to pull away, it’s a serious journey. Every time you faulter, just re-commit to doing better. You have to build a memory of yourself being successful in this area to not be bothered by removing sweets.
Omg epiphany!! That hit hard. I’m a recovering addict whose new addiction is sugar. I cannot just have a small bit. I’m gonna try cutting it out.
I love the way you talk about everything. It's so clear and respectful and straightforward that I just love it. Thanks a loooot for this video! ❤
Thank you for this video! I need more reminders about why I need to continue avoiding sugar.
I read somewhere that, when you crave sugar, what you actually need is protein.
Interesting! Since I cut out refined sugar my protein intake has gone up. Now it's making me wonder what exactly is making me feel better. 😊
That isn’t exactly true that what you need is protein it’s just that protein is more satisfying. Your gut microbiome dictates cravings and blood sugar lows sometimes will make you want carbohydrates or lack of metabolic flexibility.
Thanks for sharing this Alexandra. My sister is the same way with sugar. She does these sugar fasts where she will stay a month without sugar and then have it once and then not have any for a month or two. She says she sees the same benefits that you mentioned. Mostly her skin and feelings. Something that helps me a lot is going on morning walks EVERY SINGLE DAY for an hour. I also try not to look at my phone first thing in the morning. But my walks are a must for me. A clean diet is also a must. I was very very depressed and suicidal and once I stopped eating fast food and ate more homemade whole foods it went away. Praying also helps me when I have anxiety for no reason. Thanks for talking about your experience. These topics are important.
I think this is a huge important message for parents. Really try to limit your kids' intake of sugar. We call my youngest (7) a hummingbird because, if I let her, she would live on sugar. I really try to fill her up with apples, oranges, watermelon (in the summer). I know it's still sugar, but I feel like it's better than M&M's and Popsicles.
Watermelons are mostly water, its safe for kids :)
Any fruit is safe, it is sugar but the way our bodies process fruit is totally different than refined sugars. Obviously anything is excess is bad, but you've to really try when it comes to fruit
Fruits are VERY essential to our diet! Don’t ever feel guilty for filling her up on those :)
Fruits come with water, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and fiber. The fiber slows the rate of absorption of the fructose so you’re much less likely to have a sugar rollercoaster ride.
ahhh I relate so much. I’ve been diagnosed with and treated for every anxiety disorder under the sun (panic disorder for example) and now adhd, ocd. I’ve had a similar timeline to u with it. I’m glad this is working for you and I hope you and your doctor(s) continue to find a plan for you !!
Been added sugar free for 6 months, game changer. I can’t stop when I start so it’s a complete no go for me. Great video!
Alex, I'm taking a nutrition course right now and what you're saying about how you feel makes a lot of sense with what I'm learning about how your body processes carbs. It's very interesting to learn about how timing and the molecular structure of the sugar plays into everything too. I'm listening to this while I'm on a walk 😇
Your experience with sugar really does sound like an addiction. Just as someone who deals with addiction myself, and being interested in the subject, it sounds so similar to being addicted to drugs or alcohol. You even said “I’m so jealous of people that can indulge here and there and not ruin their life” (not verbatim I don’t remember the exact words used). But yeah. Super interesting to hear your experience.
Ugh, so relatable! I always thought I ate rather well (vegetarian, lots of home-made meals, lots of veggies and fruit), except for my penchant for sweets, but a while ago, I stumbled across a few interviews with scientists on UA-cam who talked about genetic disposition towards obesity and how ultra-processed foods affect our microbiome and how that, in turn, affects EVERYTHING about our bodies, and it was pretty eye-opening.
I had assumed I was just too weak to resist chocolate and cookies and ice cream, but it turns out that cutting out all ultra-processed foods and drastically reducing refined carbs killed off my cravings literally overnight and massively improved my energy levels and mood. (I’m more on the depresson side of things…)
I combined this change in diet with an intermittent fasting regimen (I try to eat all my food in no more than 10 hours, usually 6-8) and I can’t even begin to tell you how life-changing that was/is!!! It’s such a relief to not have to resist the temptation of late night icecream anymore because I already decided that dinner marks the end of my eating window. I practically don’t snack anymore (and if I do I usually stick with nuts), I’m not hungry, I’m not tired, it’s fantastic! I never thought I could pull this off, but once I knew which switch to flick, it was actually easy. I can only recommend.
Yay, so happy people are waking up to how terrible refined sugar is! I remember people thought I was crazy doing Keto/Low Carb, but more research has confirmed it’s helpful for depression and anxiety! Hoping everyone has their own happy, healthy, health journey ❤️
Thank you. You are right about the Internet being toxic and sugar is not our friend.😢 I work in an office and candy, donuts, snacks of all varieties are always plentiful. Fortunately, I happen to like fruits and vegetables so if I remember to bring them, I have a better day. As far as the Internet, watching your videos, watching videos about cooking, anything but the news definitely makes a difference. I appreciate your honesty. It’s easy to think that you’re just beautiful and blessed with a perfect life. Life is tough for all of us but sharing our weakness is a way to become stronger. Bravo!
Thank you so much for talking through your mental health, and never apologise for it! I think it's important people like yourself with a large following normalise talking about it so others feel comfortable doing so themselves and fear it less. I've been struggling with depression and anxiety most, if not all my life and I never really contemplated refined sugar having much of an effect on it, but it does make a lot of sense and I feel motivated to try this myself after hearing you mention it so fingers crossed and thank you so much for sharing!
I love that you tackled this issue publicly. So many people don't comprehend that sugar is the tastiest poison we all consistently expose ourselves to, and it's also the most difficult addiction to kick. (Just an FYI - Lab rats that were fed cocoaine to the point of becoming completely addicted actually rejected the drug in favor of sugar. It's THAT addicting.) I'm like you in that quitting sugar has to be an all or nothing situation. I once managed to avoid all sugar for a total of 27 days before I made the mistake of enjoying a single square of dark chocolate, which retriggered the cravings and insanity. My primary challenge in life is trying to break the cycle of sugar addiction, and over the years I've given up nearly all processed foods, but it's hard, especially since I'm a stress eater. My husband and I own a business, and I raise poultry (over 60 chickens right now), and I grow much of our food and our chickens' food...all in the hope of improving our overall nutrition and dietary habits, but some days are just so damn hard and it's to easy to just pick up a pizza. That's literally all it will take to trigger the cravings. So stay strong, keep fighting the good fight, and I promise you that you're not alone in this endeavor. And thank you for this and all of your other videos. I only recently found you here on UA-cam and have been watching your videos almost obsessively and have learned so much from you. I think you have a brilliantly creative mind, an utterly charming personality, may actually drop more F-bombs than I do 😂, and somehow have actually gotten even prettier and more beautiful as the years have progressed. And as much as I love your makeup videos, it's content like this video that actually gives me the most hope and joy because I reminds me that I'm not alone in realizing that things like sugar are a real problem.
Thank you for sharing this - it motivated me to get on the hardcore no sugar journey, which I had already started!
Alex, you get me. Officially my absolute favorite internet lady. Not just mega talented but brave and brutally honest. I appreciate you even more now. ❤
I’m day 3 into cutting out all refined sugar. I’m not successful with cutting back so I have to cut it out. I have noticed an increase in anxiety over the last few months and never made the sugar connection so now I’m even more pumped to be off it for good. Thank you for sharing 💜
This was really helpful. Life has been getting really depressing overall
Alex, thank you for talking about your mental health. There is a scientific study which was performed on babies. Keys were jingled in front of each baby, some didn't react and others overreacted. Anxiety is innate. Sleep paralysis absolutely sucks especially when you have to pee. And of course, when stuffed animals are coming to get you.
You have motivated me to give it a try!
i have tried NUMEROUS times unsuccessfully.. i have joked (but it’s true for me) that getting off sugar has been harder than getting off benzos. i have an autoimmune disease, and i’ve read a lot that sugar does NOT help. i’m tackling being better at gluten free this month 🤞🏼 .. so maybe i’ll try reducing sugar next month. i hope you continue to do well 🫶🏼
This is so me, and I didn't realize it. Thanks for sharing!
I can relate to having life-long anxiety. My first experience with sleep paralysis was also at a young age. When I was 10, I got shingles so bad, the rash covered one side of my torso in a ribbon shape from my belly button to the top of my spine. All this because I was so overcome with excitement and emotion over a family road trip to Disneyland. Worst pain I’ve ever experienced. I guess I just wanted to reach out to say I get it. You’re not alone! I admire your fortitude to quit added sugars completely. I’ve tried similar strategies but it seems that is not the path for me. It added more stress and unhappiness to my life. Anyway, just wanted to tell you I think you’re a strong person and very self aware, and it’s great you are sharing that part of who you are with all of us on similar journeys. So thank you!
I cut out added sugar like a light switch in November and I still cannot believe the difference in how I feel mentally, physically, emotionally, all of the ly’s! It affected me in ways that I didn’t even realize and thought was just my hand in life. I am happier and healthier in every single way. Thanks for sharing your always awesome thoughts about this!
I love this video and so happy you are talking about this. I struggle every day with sugar and I wake up saying I’m not going to have any. I also have anxiety and am on medication for it. Yes sugar multiplies my anxiety and I have no energy. I’m looking forward to more videos from you on this subject and your makeup videos. Keep up the good work ❤
I’ve been wanting to cut out sugar but have been failing and feeling not great about myself bc of it but the fact that you said it took you years to be successful made me feel so much better. It’s a difficult thing to cut out
I like these lil health chats
I have GAD , I cut out alcohol a year ago, and keep sugar to a minimum. I do intermittent fasting and I run. That's the things that work for me to keep me sain. That combined with antidepressants. just antidepressants wont do the job for me. I also have adhd and this is so important for me to not go crazy. It can make such a difference 🙏
My story is similar and at 50 and going through menopause it’s gotten worse. I feel like absolute garbage when I over indulge and it’s as though I’ve been partying all weekend and I’m trying to recover from a massive hangover, so far from the truth lol. We’re all human and we all fall short sometimes, you’re not alone. Take care ❤️🩹
Alex, this is a timely video, thank you for sharing! Sometimes I need these reminders because I have that same addict-like behavior with sugar. It isn't extreme, but having a little sugar every day adds up, especially for us sensitive people - and honestly probably most people. The effects of sugar are detrimental for everyone, there aren't any real nutritional or physiological benefits, but it's been normalized in our society because of the ease of access and abundance of it. I did a year and a half with no sugar, from fruits as well (berries were ok on the list) and caffeine, as well as any starchy vegetables that metabolize to sugar quickly - and I've never felt so energized, alive, and happy. Caffeine is another difficult one and I didn't notice a decrease in anxiety for a couple months - but it's pretty clear that both caffeine and sugar have highly adverse effects on my physical and mental well-being. Thank you again for making this video, I really needed to hear what you had to say. Lots of love, your pal from NH!
I did cut processed foods and sugars out for a good stretch, then had a family loss and let my depression take back over. I appreciate that you are just sharing and not recommending really. I feel so seen with how you described a lot of the back and forth, not seeing the results you wanted, and experimenting. Approaching this with kindness to yourself was refreshing and I think something that was good for me to hear as I consider a new journey myself. Feeling great is the best motivation! All the best to you as you continue on your journey.
Hi Alex, love your channel :)! I wanted to share my own experience with cutting out sugar/elimination diets because it actually made my anxiety much worse. I began to be terrified of eating any foods that fit under the "bad" food lists and started developing orthorexia tendencies (eating disorder). I really appreciate you acknowledging that most people don't need to cut sugar out completely and can actually enjoy it in moderation. I really want to make sure people are mindful of not demonizing certain foods and while videos like these can be very informative, they can actually be triggering for those with eating disorders, such as myself.
It's really refreshing and cool to hear you speak about this. Thank you ❤
I'm very addicted to sugar. Everything I eat and drink have some type of refined sugar.
i't sad that most of people doesn't know the big impact of sugar to our body.. hope more vloggers and doctors would be on the side of good..
Dude are you me ? Our stories with anxiety and depression are so similar 😭.
I did some "no sugar months" in my life since hightschool because I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it. The first 3 days are the hardest. After that, it's cool. The more time passes, the easier it becomes. And you notice fruits and things like that have a more sugary taste.
The hardest thing for me was not battling my own brain, it was bearing the comments of other people. For the random people, not eating sweets = being on a diet = wanting to lose weight. And wanting to lose weight when you're already underweight like me = being anorexic (because people don't know what being anorexic really means). So not only is temptation everywhere, but also people who says things like "you can allow yourself to eat that, with how skinny you are !", giving me side eyes and asking intrusive questions. So I don't do it when I have to eat at work for example. Though in my new work I don't have to eat there, so I should do "no sugar month" again
this is literally the chillest place on the internet