Dear Mamma3,

There are all reasons to give up sugar, especially refined sugar. Have you read the book "Pure, white, deadly" written by Professor Yutkin of University of London (Dept of Nutrition)? He says that sugar is the number 1 drug that should be banned in our society!

Anyway, to me, the main reasons to give up sugar are:
1. It triggers candida (systemic candida). Systemic candida underlines many chronic conditions.
2. It acidifies the blood, deplete the body's mineral reserve, including calcium, leading to various chronic and degenerative diseases and weakens the immune system.
3. From macrobiotic perspective, sugar is too ying.

Alternatives to sugar, in priority are:
1. Stevia, brown rice syrup, barley malt syrup.
2. Maple syrup, honey, concentrated fruit juices.
3. Unrefined evaporated cane juice.

And, other measures to stop sugar cravings:
1. Avoid too salty foods or 'yang' food (e.g. chips, meat, egg, etc.)
2. Eat more whole grains. This cultivate a more balanced (macrobiotic speaking in terms of yin-yang) diet. You become more centred and balanced and don't want 'extreme' foods on yin-yang spectrum as sugar.

Lastly, homeopathic treatment is very helpful to curb unhealthy food cravings.

Arden.