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How to Overcome Sugar Addiction
Sugar addiction is more than just an occasional craving for sweets; it's a dependence that can have significant repercussions on your health. In the United Kingdom, high sugar consumption has been linked to an increase in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. According to the National Health Service (NHS), adults should consume no more than 30g of free sugars a day, yet many exceed this limit.
British women, in particular, face unique challenges when it comes to sugar addiction. A combination of stress from balancing work and family life, social expectations to indulge during gatherings, and the pervasive availability of sugary treats make reducing sugar intake a daunting task. Understanding these hurdles is essential in taking the first steps towards a healthier lifestyle.
Understanding Sugar Addiction
A. What is Sugar Addiction?
Sugar addiction refers to the compulsive need to consume sugar-rich foods and beverages, often leading to adverse health effects. Unlike natural sugars found in fruits and vegetables, added sugars provide no nutritional benefit and can lead to a cycle of cravings and temporary satisfaction.
Physiological Effects
When you consume sugar, your body experiences a spike in blood glucose levels. This triggers the release of insulin to help cells absorb the glucose. Frequent spikes can lead to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Moreover, excessive sugar intake can lead to weight gain as excess glucose is stored as fat.
Psychological Effects
Sugar impacts the brain's reward system by releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This mechanism is similar to how addictive drugs affect the brain, leading to repeated cravings for that pleasurable feeling.
The Reward System Explained
The brain's reward system is designed to promote behaviours essential for survival, like eating. Sugar hijacks this system by triggering dopamine release, reinforcing the desire to consume more sugar. Over time, more sugar is needed to achieve the same dopamine response, leading to increased consumption.
B. Signs and Symptoms of Sugar Addiction
Recognising sugar addiction is the first step towards overcoming it. Common signs include:
- Physical Symptoms:
- Frequent fatigue or lethargy
- Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
- Headaches or migraines
- Emotional Symptoms:
- Cravings for sugary foods even when not hungry
- Feeling guilty after consuming sweets
- Mood swings or irritability when unable to consume sugar
Self-Assessment Quiz
Answer the following questions to assess your relationship with sugar:
- Do you often crave sweets after meals?
- Do you find it hard to stop at just one piece of a sugary treat?
- Do you use sugary foods to cope with stress or emotions?
- Have you attempted to cut down on sugar but found it difficult?
If you answered "yes" to two or more questions, you might be experiencing sugar addiction. For personalised advice, consider consulting a healthcare professional.
The Impact of Sugar Addiction on Women's Health
A. Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases
Sugar addiction significantly increases the risk of developing chronic health conditions:
Type 2 Diabetes
Excessive sugar consumption can lead to insulin resistance. According to Diabetes UK, over 4.9 million people in the UK have diabetes, with type 2 accounting for about 90% of cases. Women are particularly at risk due to hormonal factors affecting insulin sensitivity.
Heart Disease
High sugar intake contributes to obesity, high blood pressure, and inflammation—all risk factors for heart disease. The British Heart Foundation notes that heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the UK.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Insulin resistance plays a key role in its development. Reducing sugar intake can help manage PCOS symptoms, as highlighted by the NHS.
B. Hormonal Imbalances
Sugar addiction can wreak havoc on hormonal balance:
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
High sugar intake can exacerbate PMS symptoms by causing rapid fluctuations in blood sugar levels, leading to mood swings and irritability.
Irregular Periods
Insulin resistance from excessive sugar can interfere with ovulation, leading to irregular menstrual cycles.
C. Mental Health Concerns
There is a strong correlation between sugar intake and mental health issues:
Anxiety and Depression
A study published in the journal Scientific Reports found that high sugar consumption is associated with an increased risk of depression in adults.
Mood Swings
Fluctuating blood sugar levels can lead to irritability and sudden mood changes. Stabilising sugar intake helps maintain a balanced mood throughout the day.
Mental Health Benefits of Reducing Sugar
The mental health charity Mind emphasises that a balanced diet low in added sugars can improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Strategies to Cut Sugar Addiction
- Gradual Reduction: Slowly decrease sugar intake to minimise withdrawal symptoms.
- Balanced Nutrition: Focus on fibre, protein, and healthy fats to stabilise blood sugar levels.
- Mindful Eating: Practice awareness of food choices and hunger cues.
- Sleep Prioritisation: Get adequate sleep to regulate appetite-controlling hormones.
- Environmental Changes: Remove sugary foods from your surroundings and keep healthier alternatives available.
- Food Pairing: Consume sugary foods with high-fibre or protein-rich options to slow sugar absorption.
- Portion Control: Be mindful of serving sizes when indulging in sweet treats.
- Natural Alternatives: Use spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract for sweetness without added sugars.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water or unsweetened beverages to avoid mistaking thirst for sugar cravings.
- Regular Meals: Eat balanced meals throughout the day to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Implementing these strategies can help reduce sugar intake and improve overall health. Remember, it takes about 3-4 weeks to break a habit, so be patient and persistent in your efforts.
Conclusion
Overcoming sugar addiction is a challenging journey, but with the right knowledge and resources, it's entirely achievable. By understanding the impact of sugar on your health, implementing gradual changes, and seeking support when needed, you can take control of your cravings and enhance your overall well-being. Remember, every small step towards reducing sugar counts. Start your journey today and embrace a healthier, happier you.
References
- British Dietetic Association. (n.d.). Find a Dietitian. Retrieved from https://www.bda.uk.com/
- British Heart Foundation. (n.d.). Women's Heart Health. Retrieved from https://www.bhf.org.uk/
- British Nutrition Foundation. (n.d.). Healthy Eating. Retrieved from https://www.nutrition.org.uk/
- Diabetes UK. (n.d.). Diabetes Statistics. Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org.uk/
- Mind. (n.d.). Food and Mood. Retrieved from https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/food-and-mood/about-food-and-mood/
- National Health Service. (n.d.). How Does Sugar in Our Diet Affect Our Health?. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/how-does-sugar-in-our-diet-affect-our-health/
- National Health Service. (n.d.). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/
- National Health Service. (n.d.). Sleep and Tiredness. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sleep-and-tiredness/
- Sport England. (n.d.). Stay Active. Retrieved from https://www.sportengland.org/jointhemovement
Mounjaro is a new medication developed by Eli Lilly that contains the active ingredient tirzepatide. It was originally designed to help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. Mounjaro is administered as a once-weekly injection using a self-injection pen, typically into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. In the UK, tirzepatide (Mounjaro) has been approved for use by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Besides helping with blood sugar, Mounjaro has also been found to be very effective at helping people lose weight. This is why you might have heard it called a "weight loss jab" in the media.
- How you take it: You inject Mounjaro once a week. Your doctor will usually start you on a small dose and slowly increase it over time. This helps your body get used to the medicine and can lower the chance of you feeling sick.
How it Works:
Mounjaro is like a "twin hormone" medicine. It acts like two natural gut hormones, GLP-1 and GIP. These hormones help control blood sugar and appetite.
- It helps your body release more insulin when needed and lowers sugar from your liver, improving blood sugar control.
- It makes you feel fuller sooner and for longer, helping you eat less.
- Working on both GLP-1 and GIP is thought to be why it can lead to greater weight loss than medicines that only use GLP-1 (like Semaglutide in Ozempic/Wegovy).
What is it Used For?
- Type 2 Diabetes: Mounjaro lowers blood sugar effectively, often helping patients reach better levels (lower HbA1c). It's used alongside diet and exercise, sometimes with other diabetes medicines, typically when standard treatments aren't enough, especially if weight loss would help.
- Weight Management: In studies, people using Mounjaro lost a significant amount of weight, often averaging 15-20% of their body weight over about 1 to 1.5 years. It's approved for adults with obesity (high BMI) or those with a lower BMI and a weight-related health problem.
Access in the UK:
- NHS: Mounjaro is available on the NHS for type 2 diabetes if you meet certain criteria. For weight loss, NHS access is starting gradually through specialist clinics for adults with a very high BMI and multiple weight related health issues.
- Private: You can also access Mounjaro privately through weight loss clinics, pharmacies or online services like ours if you meet the medical criteria. SheMed operates a weight management programme specifically tailored for women, which includes the potential prescription of GLP-1 medications such as Mounjaro and Wegovy, provided the individual meets their medical criteria.
Mounjaro vs. Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy):
Both are effective weekly injections. Semaglutide works on GLP-1 while Mounjaro works on both GLP-1 and GIP. Studies suggest Mounjaro may lead to slightly more weight loss on average. But choice of drug depends on a number of factors and is very individual.
Side Effects and Safety:
Common side effects are usually mild stomach issues (nausea, vomiting, etc.) that often improve over time. Because it affects appetite, you'll feel less hungry. If you take other diabetes medicines, your doctor might adjust doses to prevent low blood sugar.
Serious side effects are rare, but contact a doctor immediately for severe tummy pain, persistent vomiting, allergic reactions, or worrying mood changes.
Important Note: Mounjaro works best with healthy eating and exercise. If you stop Mounjaro, appetite and weight can return if lifestyle changes aren't maintained.
Check our healthcare support page to see if Mounjaro could be a suitable option for you based on your health needs and the latest criteria.
FAQs
1. How is Mounjaro administered?
Mounjaro is given as a once-weekly injection. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the correct dosage and administration technique.
2. Can I use Mounjaro if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
No, tirzepatide is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as its safety in these situations has not been established. If you are planning to conceive or are breastfeeding, discuss alternative options with your doctor.
3. How long does it take to see results with Mounjaro?
While individual results vary, many users begin noticing changes within a few weeks. Maximum benefits are typically observed after several months of consistent use, alongside dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
References
- MotherToBaby. (2024). Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®) - Mother To Baby | Fact Sheets. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK605070/
- Watanabe, M., & Hasegawa, Y. (2021). Tirzepatide in adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes. New England Journal of Medicine, 385(11), 1046-1056. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2107519
- Kahn, S. E., & Florez, J. C. (2023). Tirzepatide: A dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist for type 2 diabetes management. PMC, 11543192. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11543192/
- Kahn, S. E., & Florez, J. C. (2023). Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. New England Journal of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36751934/
- Nauck, M. A., & Quast, D. R. (2020). Glucagon-like peptide-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide: A review of their roles in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Endocrine Reviews, 41(3), 1-24. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32459834/
- Kahn, S. E., & Florez, J. C. (2020). Tirzepatide: A novel dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist for type 2 diabetes management. Endocrine Society. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK605070/
A groundbreaking clinical trial has revealed that Mounjaro (tirzepatide) leads to greater weight loss than its rival Wegovy (semaglutide), offering new hope for people struggling with obesity.
Head-to-Head Results: Mounjaro vs Wegovy
The study, presented at the European Congress on Obesity and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, compared the two most talked-about weight-loss injections. Over 72 weeks, participants taking Mounjaro lost an average of 20% of their body weight, compared to 14% for those on Wegovy. That’s a significant difference, especially for those with a lot of weight to lose.
Key Findings:
- 32% of Mounjaro users lost at least a quarter of their body weight, compared to 16% on Wegovy.
- Waistlines shrank more: Mounjaro users lost an average of 18cm from their waists, while Wegovy users lost 13cm.
- Health improvements: Mounjaro also led to better blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol results.
- Similar side-effect profiles for both drugs.
- Women tended to lose more weight than men on both medications.
How Do These Medications Work?
Both Mounjaro and Wegovy help people feel full, reducing appetite and encouraging the body to burn stored fat. The key difference is that Wegovy mimics one appetite-control hormone, while Mounjaro targets two, which may explain its superior results.
Mounjaro and Wegovy: Availability and Eligibility in the UK
Both Mounjaro and Wegovy are available for weight management in the UK through both the NHS and private clinics. Here’s what you need to know about who can access them and how.
NHS Eligibility Criteria
Both medications are available on the NHS, but only for people who meet specific criteria:
- Adults with a BMI of 35 or above and at least one weight-related health condition (such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, or osteoarthritis).
- Adults with a BMI of 30 or above who qualify for referral to a Specialist Weight Management Service (SWMS) and have not succeeded with other weight loss methods.
- Some groups, such as certain minority ethnic backgrounds or those with cardiovascular disease, may qualify with a BMI as low as 27.5.
Private Prescription Criteria
For those seeking treatment privately, the requirements are less strict:
- BMI of 30 or above, or BMI of 27 or above with a weight-related health condition or from certain ethnic backgrounds.
- Patients must complete an online or in-person consultation, including questions on weight, medical history, and current medications.
- New regulations require verification of identity and medical suitability, often with GP input or supporting records.
Estimated Monthly Costs
Customers seeking access to weight loss treatments like Mounjaro and Wegovy can conveniently receive private prescriptions through online clinics such as SheMed Healthcare. SheMed specializes in providing healthcare services tailored for women, including a dedicated weight loss programme.
Here is a breakdown of the programme's pricing:
- Starting Price: £99 for the initial dose.
- Includes: This initial cost covers a health screening, which involves a blood test to ensure the treatment is safe and appropriate.
- Subsequent Doses: Later doses are priced at £159 each.
Conclusion
This major trial confirms Mounjaro's significant edge over Wegovy, demonstrating superior weight loss and better health outcomes for individuals with obesity. Both medications represent powerful advancements in weight management and are available in the UK via NHS and private pathways, offering promising new options for those seeking effective medical treatment. If you have any questions about these medications or weight loss options, please visit the SheMed Support website for more information.