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Abstract

th, food scientists simply build on what we are wired to crave.</p><p id="a8dc">From <a href="https://www.webmd.com/diet/features/13-ways-to-fight-sugar-cravings#1">WebMD</a>:</p><p id="958f"><i>…Americans do overconsume, averaging about 22 teaspoons of added sugars per day, according to the American <a href="https://www.webmd.com/heart/picture-of-the-heart">Heart</a> Association, which recommends limiting added sugars to about 6 teaspoons per day for women and 9 for men.</i></p><p id="4b06">There is sugar in damned near everything, if it’s processed, along with additional salts and other crap you and I can’t pronounce. So it was easy to pack it on as some of us had to turn to packaged foods when getting to the grocer, or at least doing it safely, got harder.</p><p id="f572">Under Covid, many if not most of us packed on pounds, feeding ourselves “comfort foods,” many if not most of which included added sugars, if not were pure sugar, as in candies and chocolate bars. I know I did.</p><figure id="9904"><img src="https://cdn-images-1.readmedium.com/v2/resize:fit:800/0*2Yle9ir1P2JupdYN"><figcaption>Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@heatherbarnes?utm_source=medium&utm_medium=referral">Heather Barnes</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com?utm_source=medium&utm_medium=referral">Unsplash</a></figcaption></figure><p id="713b">For me, however, it was more about pure stress. It’s hard to make a huge cross-country move. That’s one of life’s biggest stressors. Add to that a trip to the hospital with a kidney infection and stones, then a nasty car accident, well. It’s been quite the year and it ain’t done yet. Hardly.</p><p id="2bc7">The extreme stressors of those events were just part of the overall circumstance set.</p><p id="a524">I had to completely overhaul my diet at 67, given that I have Interstitial Cystitis and kidney stones. IC is, to my mind, a catch-all phrase that means <i>we have no clue but we’ll give it a name to sound official.</i></p><p id="3708">I know what IC is like in practice. Bad enough so that when handed a long list of Do Not Eats, I was happy to comply.</p><p id="4e89">Now handed a much, much longer additional list to prevent a recurrence of oxalate kidney stones, I was also told in no uncertain terms that salt, and my beloved sugar, were off the table. Worse, NO MORE CHOCOLATE.</p><p id="7147">Even worse, NO MORE CHOCOLATE ALMONDS. As in <b>ever</b>.</p><p id="685d">Well. <i>Shit</i>.</p><p id="3ad0">While in some ways this is a blessing, I will confess that the forced divorce from one of Life’s Great Joys- milk chocolate almonds-was hard.</p><figure id="4e2b"><img src="https://cdn-images-1.readmedium.com/v2/resize:fit:800/0*lngsYribIcdTKR5w"><figcaption>Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@grimnoire?utm_source=medium&utm_medium=referral">emy</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com?utm_source=medium&utm_medium=referral">Unsplash</a></figcaption></figure><p id="8e44">Unlike a friend, who, when faced with the same list I got, he intoned with great gravity, that he would “eat what I want and deal with the stones,” I like being alive. Those stones nearly killed me. Imagine eating what you want, but living with a potentially deadly Sword of Damocles over your head.</p><p id="8231">I can’t speak for anyone else, but kidney stones equal suffering. At least for me they do, and for anyone else I’ve ever spoken with who has experienced them. To that, and again I can only speak for myself, stuffing my favorite foods down my gullet out of the need to put my gustatory delights ahead of both my personal safety and that of others seems stupid at best, and foolish at worst.</p><p id="9c1c">The reason, at least in my case, that such decisions have the potential to hurt others, there’s this: I flipped my car because of a kidney stone in July. It was only stupid damned luck I didn’t land on top of a car full of kids, or cause oncoming traffic to swerve and kill off those occupants. You see my point.</p><p id="fb17">Our self-serving selfishness can indeed affect others in ways that we most certainly don’t intend. If, however, you and I learn that our desires can hurt others, and I am just teasing out food here, then it seems incumbent upon us to <i>back the fuck off.</i></p><p id="12f6">If what you and I ingest makes us unhealthy, causes us disease and other issues, then it’s most certainly not just about us. It’s very much about those who count on us, love us and want us to stick around a bit longer.</p><p id="cd30">But that’s just me.</p><p id="7086">In a country full of folks who can’t be bothered to wear masks because it protects OTHER people, why on earth should I expect those same folks to make better choices about their health for the same reasons?</p><p id="bc02">But I digress.</p><figure id="eb2f"><img src="https://cdn-images-1.readmedium.com/v2/resize:fit:800/0*G9hwJ4RPM6v3rvvE"><figcaption>Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@ahungryblonde_?utm_source=medium&utm_medium=referral">Sara Dubler</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com?utm_source=medium&utm_medium=referral">Unsplash</a></figcaption></figure><p id="4089">In my favorite <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Buddhas-Teaching-Transforming-Liberation/dp/0767903692">book </a>by Vietnamese Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh, he points out that you and I, when and if we are able to identify the source of our suffering, in this case for me both IC and kidney stones, we can choose not to ingest those things which cause us suffering. While in the largest sense this

Options

would be just as applicable to ingesting doom material, hate speech and the like, let’s just keep this to sugar, my beloved nemesis.</p><p id="f7b9">I was given long and difficult lists to redirect my eating habits to prevent stones. But also those nasty IC flareups which mean long nights on the toilet with no relief in sight and the unhappy prospect of having to wear Certain Undergarments. Look. For me it was easy. I have no interest in making myself suffer physically any more than necessary.</p><p id="5603">What that meant was that those foods were off the menu. Yeah, and forever this time. No more <i>next time</i>, or <i>just a little. Just one</i>. Because for me and my compulsive nature, Just One is an invitation to the Whole Damned Bag.</p><p id="e78b">I am as bad as a reformed alcoholic invited into a bar. Just a sip, that’s all.</p><p id="8e80">Not on your life, especially if it really does mean your life.</p><p id="fcfc">Since July, I’ve not had any of the foods on the May Not Have List.</p><p id="6458">Several things have happened. Not only has my weight, which had risen some 23 pounds, dropped back down (at first to sheer stress, and now it’s maintenance). The other gift, which has been echoed by fellow Medium writers, is that the tongue gets retrained naturally to enjoy what Nature has always offered us as natural candy: berries, bananas, apples, the sweet treats without the damaging <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323818">fructose</a>. Honey in my hot milk, for I had to give up tea and coffee because of the oxalates and tannins, is sweet enough.</p><p id="8033">A big handful of green grapes is about as sweet as I can handle. Those are my big, big treats. A Honey Crisp apple is nearly a meal unto itself. I have found immense joy in scarfing down a six ounce package of huge blackberries, and I never leave the house without two big apples in the console when I need consolation.</p><p id="a3e6">Why apples? There are all kinds of reasons that the old saw of an apple a day really is based on solid science:</p><div id="c1b4" class="link-block"> <a href="https://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-eats/nutrition/health-benefits-apples/"> <div> <div> <h2>13 Surprising Health Benefits of Apples That'll Have You Eating One (or More) a Day</h2> <div><h3>Sometimes the simplest foods are the best foods for us. You don't have to be a nutritionist to realize that apples are…</h3></div> <div><p>www.besthealthmag.ca</p></div> </div> <div> <div style="background-image: url(https://miro.readmedium.com/v2/resize:fit:320/0*nwBspeSWAwx2gW2Q)"></div> </div> </div> </a> </div><p id="30e6">If you can eat apples, have at it. As with all issues dietary, know what you can and can’t have.</p><p id="ba78">You may do that research and STILL eat shit. At that point, when the body rebels and we get sick, or get stones, or expire early, there really is just one person to blame.</p><p id="95c5">One Medium buddy had to do much the same thing with her body. She told me I could retrain my sweet tooth, and she’s right. While I will still use sweetener (certain kinds, not all), I have noticed that in the largest sense, giving up sugar has given me back two things: the body I had, which is much happier where I am now; better health from taking out those substances that make me feel heavy and logey; and better long-term health by removing substances that my particular body doesn’t like.</p><figure id="4e78"><img src="https://cdn-images-1.readmedium.com/v2/resize:fit:800/0*mIPHlZYL_YbLhX2a"><figcaption>Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@elldot_?utm_source=medium&utm_medium=referral">Leon Ell'</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com?utm_source=medium&utm_medium=referral">Unsplash</a></figcaption></figure><p id="6eb0">That last is likely true for all of us. I’ve written elsewhere that as we age, our dietary needs change. For some it’s just fewer calories. For others, for whatever reason, as we shift into life’s later gears, nutritional needs shift with us. Not paying attention can cost us dearly. Learning what we need, and still not paying attention, is just plain stupid, if not spiteful behavior towards the only instrument we have through which to experience life on Earth.</p><p id="24b9">Retraining my sweet tooth this year wasn’t strictly about getting my pre-breakup, pre-Covid body back. It wasn’t just about stating my gustatory freedom from the bad juju the breakup left behind. It was as much a statement of a genuine commitment to vibrant health as anything. While yes, you’re damned right I miss my chocolate almonds (which at one point my <i>Illumination </i>buddy <a href="undefined">Charles Roast</a> offered to send me express mail, bless his six-pack-protected good heart), I am done with them.</p><p id="873d"><b>That’s a statement of freedom.</b> From bad food, bad diseases, bad side effects. And the freedom to eat what Nature intended as our sweets, some of which (citrus, pineapple) I’ve also had to give up. But what’s left is plenty.</p><figure id="3621"><img src="https://cdn-images-1.readmedium.com/v2/resize:fit:800/0*b94AMNsik10wYjYD"><figcaption>Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@clemono?utm_source=medium&utm_medium=referral">Clem Onojeghuo</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com?utm_source=medium&utm_medium=referral">Unsplash</a></figcaption></figure></article></body>

My Top 5 Must Reads Of the Day#15

And Why I recommend You

Are you tired of sifting through countless articles on Medium, searching for the ones that truly stand out?

Look no further!

I have curated a list of the top 5 must-read articles on the platform.

You’ll find five exceptional articles that are sure to captivate your attention and leave you wanting more.

From intriguing concepts to valuable recommendations, each of these articles is a gem waiting to be discovered.

So grab a piping hot cup of your favorite coffee, and let’s embark on an electrifying adventure together as we uncover the crème de la crème on Medium.

This is a My Special Top 50 Must reads [Open submission*]

My Top 50 Must Reads Special Edition#1

Welcome to my Top 50 Reads Special Edition!

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Do you want me to review your article and appear on my top 5 of the day? Let me know in the coments below!!!

Table of Content

· Benefits for being part of my Top 5 of the day · Why consider to tip me? ∘ Top 1 Karen Marie Shelton — “I’ve Been A Professional Writer My Entire Life, But My Medium Articles” ∘ Top 2 Francis Lee — “How I Became a Success on Medium with Only 3 Stories,” ∘ Top 3 B.R. Shenoy — “Anatomy of Her Anonymous Acronym” ∘ Top 4 Every Day Life Improvement — The Importance of a Healthy and Sustainable Approach to Weight Loss ∘ Top 5 Julia A. Keirns — Do I Believe in Beginner’s Luck? March Madness Writing Challenge Day 6

· Final Thoughts · Writers For Next Edition #16 — — #1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #10 #11 #12 #13 #14 · My PreviousTop 5 Must Reads Of the Day ∘ I personally Recommend This to my Followers

Benefits for being part of my Top 5 of the day

Increased visibility: By having your article reviewed and featured on the top 5 list, you’ll gain more visibility and exposure on Medium.
Valuable feedback: I will provide you with constructive feedback on your article, which can help you improve your writing skills and produce better content in the future.
Credibility boost: Being featured on a top 5 list can enhance your credibility as a writer and position you as an authority in your field.
Community engagement: By leaving a comment below, you’ll engage with a community of fellow writers and readers, who may provide you with additional feedback and support.
Motivation: Knowing that your article could potentially be featured on the top 5 list can be a great motivator to produce high-quality content and strive for excellence in your writing.

Why consider to tip me?

“If you enjoy the content I create, consider supporting me with a tip.

Your generosity fuels my passion for producing high-quality work and helps me continue to bring valuable insights and inspirations to you.
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With your support, I can invest more time and resources into creating even more exceptional content. Your contribution, no matter how small, means the world to me.

Thank you for your kindness and appreciation.”

Top 1

Karen Marie Shelton — “I’ve Been A Professional Writer My Entire Life, But My Medium Articles”

I can confidently say that “I’ve Been A Professional Writer My Entire Life, But My Medium Articles” is a must-read.

This article showcases the quality and depth of Karen Marie’s writing skills, while simultaneously highlighting the struggles that many writers face, such as imposter syndrome.

I’ve Been A Professional Writer My Entire Life, But My Medium Articles

Is pushing all my imposter syndrome buttons

shelton-35782.medium.com

“I’ve Been A Professional Writer My Entire Life, But My Medium Articles” is a heartwarming and candid piece that speaks to the experience of many writers.

Karen Marie’s journey through writing is an inspiring one, starting from her early days as a backyard playwright, to her current role as a seasoned writer and editor.

What I love most about this article is the raw honesty with which Karen shares her struggles with imposter syndrome and self-doubt.

As a writer myself, I can relate to this feeling all too well.

Karen Marie’s writing style is engaging, and her storytelling abilities are exceptional.

She paints vivid pictures of her childhood memories and seamlessly transitions into her professional life as a writer.

Her humor shines through as she recounts her experiences writing about technology and beauty, and the challenges she faced along the way.

I particularly enjoyed her use of Yogi Bhajan’s quote to highlight the importance of writing to learn, understand, and master a subject.

Overall, Karen Marie’s Medium article is a must-read for any aspiring writer.

Her journey shows that with perseverance and hard work, anyone can overcome imposter syndrome and achieve success as a writer.

Karen is an excellent storyteller, and her writing is a testament to her talent and dedication.

I highly recommend this article to anyone looking for inspiration and insight into the writing life.

Top 2

Francis Lee — “How I Became a Success on Medium with Only 3 Stories,”

As someone who has always been successful at walking to my car, I know what it takes to achieve greatness one step at a time.

But this story by Francis Lee, “How I Became a Success on Medium with Only 3 Stories,” takes that idea to a whole new level.

How I Became a Success on Medium with Only 3 Stories

What happened today, made my writing here all worth it.

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Support Francis Lee

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Read every story from Francis Lee (and thousands of other writers on Medium). Your membership fee directly supports…

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Francis Lee’s writing is a true work of art, and it’s clear that they pour their heart and soul into every piece.

From the poignant words that evoke emotions to the beautiful paintings that accompany them, Lee’s work is a testament to the power of creativity and connection.

What’s even more impressive is how Lee has found success on Medium with only three stories.

It’s a true testament to the quality and beauty of his writing.

And as someone who has read those three stories, I can say with confidence that they are not to be missed.

Lee’s writing is full of wisdom and insight, and it has the power to brighten someone’s day and make them feel understood.

I was blown away by how much I resonated with their words, and I know that others will too.

So if you’re looking for something to read that will make you feel inspired and connected, look no further than Francis Lee’s work.

It’s a true masterpiece, and I can’t wait to see what Lee comes up with next.

Top 3

B.R. Shenoy —“Anatomy of Her Anonymous Acronym”

I can appreciate a well-written piece, and B.R. Shenoy’s article “Anatomy of Her Anonymous Acronym” is a gem.

Reading it was like having a conversation with an old friend.

Her writing style is warm, personal, and engaging, and I found myself nodding along to her experiences and anecdotes.

Meet B.R. Shenoy

Anatomy of Her Anonymous Acronym

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Support B.R. Shenoy

Join Medium with my referral link - B.R. Shenoy

Read every story from B.R. Shenoy (and thousands of other writers on Medium). Your membership fee directly supports…

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One of the things I appreciated most about this article was Shenoy’s honesty and vulnerability. She shares her motivations for writing and her struggles with maintaining consistency in her writing schedule.

As someone who also writes, I could relate to her struggles and found her tips for maintaining consistency helpful.

Shenoy’s writing spans a range of topics, from nature and mental health to technology and family. Her research-based articles are informative and thought-provoking, and her personal stories are heartwarming and relatable.

I particularly enjoyed her musings on parenting and the lessons she has learned from her children.

Overall, I highly recommend reading Shenoy’s work.

Her writing is a beautiful blend of humor, thoughtfulness, and sincerity.

If you’re looking for a refreshing perspective on a wide range of topics, look no further than this talented writer.

Top 4

Every Day Life Improvement — The Importance of a Healthy and Sustainable Approach to Weight Loss

Oh my goodness, where do I even begin?

This article is an absolute gem!

It’s like a breath of fresh air in a world filled with toxic diet culture and unrealistic beauty standards.

Every Day Life Improvement’s voice is so relatable and genuine, and I found myself nodding along with every word.

She really drives home the importance of a healthy and sustainable approach to weight loss, without being preachy or judgmental.

The Importance of a Healthy and Sustainable Approach to Weight Loss

TikTok’s diet culture can be harmful to teenage kids and promote ED, such as anorexia and bulimia. Quick-fix mentality…

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And let’s talk about the writing itself — it’s clear, concise, and so well-crafted.

I was hooked from the first sentence and couldn’t stop reading until I reached the end.

But what I really appreciated about this article was Every Day Life Improvement’s sense of humor.

She managed to tackle a serious topic in a way that was both informative and entertaining.

I found myself laughing out loud at some of the clever quips and pop culture references.

So, if you’re looking for a thoughtful and well-written article that will make you think and make you laugh.

This is a must-read for anyone who wants to break free from toxic diet culture and prioritize their health and well-being.

Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Top 5

Julia A. Keirns — Do I Believe in Beginner’s Luck? March Madness Writing Challenge Day 6

I can definitely appreciate a good piece of writing when I see one. And this article on beginner’s luck is definitely one of them!

Julia A. Keirns takes a simple concept like beginner’s luck and turns it into a captivating story about Rich’s dad, who managed to bowl a perfect game with just a couple of games per week.

Julia not only entertains the reader but also provides interesting facts about the odds of bowling a perfect game, which is a great bonus.

Do I Believe in Beginner’s Luck?

March Madness Writing Challenge Day 6

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What I love about this article is the way Julia writes.

It’s effortless, witty, and engaging, making the reader feel like they’re having a conversation with an old friend.

The writing flows so smoothly that it’s hard to believe it’s about a statistical concept like beginner’s luck.

If you’re a fan of storytelling and want to learn something new about the world of odds, this article is a must-read.

Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Plus, who knows?

Maybe after reading this, you’ll go out and try something new, and who knows, maybe you’ll be the next person to experience the magical power of beginner’s luck.