Late Nights withSara-Jayne King

"According to the SA National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, the average South African now consumes 17 teaspoons of sugar and similar sweeteners a day – on par with global consumption, which has increased by 46% over the past 30 years."

Azania Mosaka spoke with Stefni Herbert, who is a Health24 content producer and says she used to consume more sugar per day than most of her colleagues combined.

Herbert placed herself on a 14 day challenge to quit sugar.

I had a slab of chocolate daily and between six to eight cups of coffee a day with three teaspoons of sugar. I snacked constantly on sweets.

— Stefni Herbert, Health24 content producer

In addition to the sweets and chocolate, Herbert says she would also consume at least one carb loaded meal a day.

As a result of her eating patterns, Herbert explains that she would often feel sluggish and developed issues with her skin.

When Herbet decided to abandon the sugar, she began examining her food labels and monitored what she ate extensively. Dietitian, Ria Catsicas, walked Herbet during her sugar free journey, giving advice on what she should and shouldn't eat.

I used to be a biscuit addict. I'm totally sugar free for a month now, the results have been phenomenal. I have lost a few centimetres around the waist and on my legs. I'm feeling great. It literally is mind over matter.

— Rosina, caller

@Azania_ Death by caller 😂😂 Huuuu Aza when i eat chokolete i finish it phf! Phf!! Phf! 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/MqNQDTMsDK

— Uncle Mohale 🐦 (@MoLeboko) August 10, 2017

@Azania Aza sugar is killer I just reduced from taking three tablespoons to one. I can dont feel sleepy plus I have so much energy

— myria (@nyax82) August 10, 2017

Herbert explains that her blood sugar levels also dropped remarkably once she had gone off sugar.

Listen to the audio clip below for more:

This article first appeared on 702 : Health Feature: How to give up sugar in 14 days