Overcoming the fear of sugar: a more balanced approach

When navigating life after breast cancer, there’s a lot of talk about sugar—what to eat, what to avoid, and how it affects your health. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking sugar is the enemy.

But here’s the thing: stressing over sugar might actually be more harmful than sugar itself. 

In today’s Wellbeing Wednesday, I want to explore why fearing sugar is common after a breast cancer diagnosis and how you can make informed choices without letting fear take the wheel.

Let’s dive into finding balance with sugar so you can support your recovery without depriving yourself.

Sugar and Breast Cancer: Why the Fear?

It’s no surprise that sugar is one of the most feared foods for cancer survivors. You’ve likely heard statements like “sugar feeds cancer,” and while there’s some truth to the science behind sugar, it’s not as black and white as it seems. 

The reality is, eliminating sugar completely isn’t always practical. Celebrations, birthdays, and sometimes even an emotionally difficult day might have you reaching for something sweet—and that’s okay.

The Stress Around Sugar Can Be Harmful

Many breast cancer survivors I’ve worked with talk about feeling guilty with every bite of sugar. You want to nourish your body, but conflicting advice about sugar makes it hard to know what’s right.

Here's where stress comes into play: when you constantly worry about food choices, your body reacts by releasing cortisol, a stress hormone that can negatively impact your immune system.

So the fear of sugar might do more harm than a slice of cake ever could. That’s why I believe it’s important to find a sustainable, balanced approach to eating sugar that doesn’t leave you feeling deprived or guilty.

Reframe Your Relationship With Sugar

One of my favorite quotes from Elizabeth Gilbert’s *Big Magic* is about fear—it’s a part of life, but we don’t have to let it drive the car. The same goes for sugar. You can allow it to exist in your life, without letting it control your health choices.

What if you could enjoy your food, including the occasional sweet treat, without the stress and guilt? What if you felt confident that your food choices are supporting your recovery, not holding you back? 

Here are three quick tips to help you strike that balance:

1. Educate Yourself – Understand how sugar affects your body and recovery. When informed, you can make choices with confidence instead of fear. I don't recommend going down the "Google Rabbit Hole" for this...find a resource, coach, dietician you can feel confident in.
2. Focus on Moderation – It’s not about completely cutting sugar out of your life. A balanced diet that includes occasional treats is more sustainable and healthy.
3. Mindful Eating – Enjoy your food without judgment. Pay attention to what your body needs, and allow yourself some grace. 

You deserve to enjoy life, and that includes your favorite foods—yes, even sugar (in moderation) - without the fear of it setting you back.

If you're ready to learn how to eat healthier after breast cancer without the stress, join my upcoming free masterclass, **From Difficult to Doable: 4 EASY Steps to Start Eating Healthier After Breast Cancer.**