Over the years, I’ve tried to give up Diet Coke over twenty times and never succeeded. I can go about two weeks without a soda before I reach for one. Yes, I’m an addict. I know that water should be my number one choice for quenching my thirst, but too often I grab a diet soda instead.
NYC’s proposed Super Size Soda Band has inspired me to re-think my drink. Here’s some expert advice on kicking the can if you can’t seem to find the strength to fight the temptation to reach for a diet soda.
Jillian Michaels admits quitting soda isn’t easy, but it is well worth it. The negative effects facing soda drinkers can range from obesity and bone loss to diabetes — and some studies even suggest links to cancer. In addition, soda is costly. According to the National Soft Drink Association, the average American drinks 600 12-ounce servings of soda a year. That’s roughly three a day at $1 a pop — or about $1,000 a year! Over a decade you will spend as much as $10,000 — not to mention the amount it will cost you in health-related medical issues down the road.
So, where do you start and what do you do? Jillian Michaels says the first step is to admit it’s an addiction — both chemical and behavioral. Second, prepare yourself to feel like crap for a bit until your body has detoxed from soda and broken the chemical addiction. Everyone’s body is different. Most likely you will feel badly for around a month based on Jillian’s personal experience. I strongly agrees with these statements. I’ve never made it to the thirty day mark due to these symptoms.
The best way to manage the biochemical aspects of your detox according to Jillian Michaels is to make sure to stabilize your blood sugar with balanced meals (some protein, fat, and carbs) every 3 to 4 hours. Hydrate with water as much as possible to help flush out chemicals and boost your energy.
Next, from a behavioral standpoint try switching to carbonated water and adding some natural flavor to it like a splash of juice. You can do it!
Read all ‘Ask Jillian’ Q&A Columns here.
The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic is on location in Central Park, New York City to find out people’s reactions to Mayor Michael Bloomberg‘s proposed Super Size Soda ban.
Free Diabetes Podcast inspired by Whitney Houston hosted by Mr. Divabetic featuring the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach, Mama Rose Marie and real-life diva, Emily C. from San Francisco! http://www.blogtalkradio.com/divatalkradio1/2012/08/07/diabetes-roundtable-inspired-by-whitney-houston
Mr. Divabetic hosts the roving red TOMATO carpet at the 3rd Annual Bake Bethesda A Pie Contest at Central Farm Markets, Bethesda, MD
Tags: celebrity fitness trainers, diets, health, obesity, soda, soda addiction, soda ban, sugar, weight loss, weight loss advice, wellness advice
