Reducing sugar intake, even for a short period, can lead to noticeable health improvements, according to gastroenterologist Dr Saurabh Sethi, who recently shared insights on the effects of quitting added sugar for 14 days.
In an Instagram post, Dr Sethi explained that sugar does more than just add extra calories. “Sugar hijacks appetite, cravings, insulin, and liver fat — quietly,” he said, adding that this is why he often encourages patients to try eliminating added sugar for two weeks.
During the initial days, the body undergoes an adjustment phase. Individuals may experience intense cravings, headaches, fatigue, irritability, and brain fog. Dr Sethi clarified that this phase is not withdrawal but rather the brain recalibrating to lower sugar intake.
As the days progress, the body begins to adapt. Cravings reduce significantly, energy levels stabilise, and bloating decreases. Many people also notice fewer afternoon energy crashes and improved insulin response, allowing the body to manage sugar more efficiently.
By the second week, further benefits may become evident, including improved sleep, clearer hunger signals, reduced food urges, a flatter stomach, and better fasting glucose levels. While weight loss may not be dramatic, metabolic efficiency improves, supporting long-term health.
Dr Sethi noted that avoiding added sugar for 14 days helps lower insulin spikes, reduce liver sugar load, decrease water retention, reset taste buds, and lower visceral fat signalling. He concluded that this reset can be especially beneficial for those struggling with constant cravings, fatty liver, insulin resistance, bloating, low energy, and poor sleep.
