Sugar connection to depression

I have always known that sugar and I don't get along, and that my mood is low if I have too much processed sugars - like in cookies, cakes, candy, and processed coffee beverages...

But, like an addict, I'm always drawn to them with the "just a little indulgence" attitude that leads to constant consumption of refined sugars.

Here are some articles discussing the link between depression and sugar (and also caffeine...they say the body processes caffeine and sugar the same way).

http://www.care2.com/greenliving/sug...epression.html
http://www.three-peaks.net/annette/Processed-Sugar.htm

I am going to post an article about this on my blog as well. When I do, I'll post a link to share, but for now, I wanted to share this with anyone who is just drawn to sugar whenever they're feeling down...or notice that they feel more depressed when they have refined sugars.

Thanks for the post and links. Practically all I want to eat is sugar and carbs, and both make me depressed and very tired. But, first the sugar will cause insomnia if too close to bedtime. I also rationalize that I'll have "just a little", but I'm an addict when it comes to sweets.

You just made me want to head to the fridge for ice cream....I find living here in the dark and cold land my body craves sweets and carbs...especially chocolate, and right around bed time....keeps me up....too....when I'm really depressed.....french fries, hamburgers, you name the junk food, and I'm there......too bad that those foods are not good for us...sure would be fun eating those instead of green salads....low-fat everything....!!!!!

I am craving sweet junk at the moment and feeling really low

I cleaned out the refined sugars from the house about five years ago. After reading the articles you share I’m now very glad I did. I was diagnosed in 98 with CFIDS – Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome and have been completely disabled from this condition since that time. I had to not only give up work but I had to finally drop the college courses I was taking on my way to becoming a CPA.

I allow myself sugar when I’m away from home but it is no longer in my home.
I also found the information in the articles helpful about how we should structure our meal times.

Thank you so much for sharing. (((()))) Patricia

The first part of the day, I was actually doing well. The weather has gotten beautiful here, and I walked my son to school today, and walked to pick him up as well. I felt pretty good, but sometime after lunch, I got so tired. I'm not eating sugary foods. I haven't had coffee in several days (I can't drink it without the mocha flavor). I'm tired when I have it, and tired when I don't. Ugh!

Thats so interesting! I've never connected that my sugar consumption habits might be related to my depression! Insomnia yes, but I didn't even wonder if it would be making me more prone to depression. Thank you for this insight!

I think I'll make more of an effort to steer clear of the sweets now! Even though I looove to eat them.

Maybe it would be a good idea to look into baking with naturally processed sugars? Instant theory here: that if I were to use naturally processed cane sugar I could still bake and eat the occasional "goodie" without the fallout. Hmm... but then getting ahold of naturally processed anything is usually more pricey. Wah!