“Success will never be a big step in the future: Success is a small step taken just now.” – Jonatan Martensson

In case you don’t already know, it has been a rough couple years for me in terms of stomach issues. I have had complaints of stomach problems for 8 years, but it wasn’t until 2 1/2 years ago that I went gluten free. Even after going gluten free I have never completely felt 100% better. Recently I tested positive for fairly severe gastroparesis, which means I have delayed gut motility. My dietitian also thinks I have something called small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, which frequently occurs in patients with gastroparesis. The treatment is a sugar-free diet. Sugar-free, as in, no carbs, no ketchup, no pickles, honey, or cereal, or fruit juice… or happiness. Just kidding 🙂

I began the sugar-free challenge on Wednesday, January 15th. I am proud to say that my “win” is being sugar-free for 11 days! *Disclaimer: my dietitian saw my struggles after the first week and allowed me to incorporate a small amount of bread in my diet as needed, but I try and save this for very rare treats. This challenge has been incredibly trying, and without a doubt much harder than going gluten free. Although I am allowed smoothies, plain yogurt, and vegetables, you really don’t realize how much everything needs sugar to taste good! For the first 7-8 days, I was having serious signs of withdrawal, and had a lot of difficulty taking my mind off of sugar. My dietitian explained that since sugar feeds the bacteria, it really is as if I am addicted to it. At the end of the day, the cravings have gotten better and I know each day I’m on the road to recovery. I know it sounds crazy, but it really has been an emotional rollercoaster. It’s not a fast journey, and staring at the candy in the grocery store isles, the gluten-free baked goods on social media, and the cupcakes in the bakery won’t get easier. But each day that I turn them down, I know I’m on my way.

Chocolate, candy,
cupcakes galore,
I stare at the sugar
craving more and more.

Zucchini, squash, beans,
you’re not what I want to eat.
I solemnly frown
and look down at my feet.

It’s becoming clear to me,
despite my love for you,
the flavor’s not worth,
the damage you do.

If you laughed at this post or wondered what would be so hard about giving up sugar, I challenge you to go sugar-free for 10 days. You may not be addicted like me, so perhaps it will be easier, but there it is. The challenge is out there. Can you handle it?