Should you go sugar free this September?

Yes, summer is on its way out. The weather may have disappointed us this year, but the food was great — ice creams, BBQs, all those lovely cocktails — our inner sweet tooth was in heaven! But, as we approach the autumn, perhaps the heady days of summer are hitting all at once. Some blood sugar TLC may be in order. Here’s to shaking off the indulgence and having a reboot. Welcome to the ‘September Sugar Reset’ — it’s your time to ditch the sugar-laden habits and step into autumn feeling fresh. 

The challenge simply involves avoiding foods with added sugars for the month of September. Instead, we encourage you to load up on nutrient-rich foods and give your body the break it's been begging for. It's like clearing out your home, getting rid of the junk and embracing the good. Studies show that long-term consumption of refined sugar can lead to inflammation, brain fog and fatigue. So, try the challenge to see how you could feel lighter, clearer and more energetic. 

Sugar's been running the show for far too long — time to take the reins. But what is the motive? Our Sugar Challenge isn't about dropping pounds, nor is it about external appearances, and it’s definitely not a ‘crash diet’. This time it's different. It’s about feeling that glow from the inside, saying goodbye to mental fogginess and hello to a sharper and calmer mind. 

The science is backing it too, with one study concluding that just a 100 g per day increase in dietary sugar intake is associated with a 28% higher risk of depression. Plus, sugar can alter brain function similar to addictive substances, leading to mood swings and increased stress levels.

Is sugar the first thing on the ingredients list? If so, ditch those sugar-loaded snacks; let's nourish with purpose. Hydrate, eat whole foods, and embrace the season with warming, wholesome meals, think hearty stews and roasts and all the vibrant seasonal veg. 

Bright yellow and orange veggies aren’t just pretty on your plate — they're loaded with vitamins and antioxidants like carotenoids, which are known to boost your immune system and help fend off oxidative stress, keeping you feeling youthful and resilient through the winter ahead. Your body will thank you for it.

New seasons are approaching, and your immune system could use a bit of a leg up. Refined sugar is notorious for weakening our defences. Cut it out and take your seasonal veg to the next level by adding immune-boosting wonders such as citrus, garlic, and dark green leafy vegetables. 

Recent research shows how garlic strengthens your immune cells and soothes inflammation, while citrus floods your system with antioxidants, keeping your defences strong and ready for the season

Like how it feels? A balanced diet isn’t just about a quick fix — it’s about setting the foundation for long-term health. Start planning your meals, establish a sleep routine, and get moving. 

Autumn is perfect for new activities — hiking, cycling, or that fitness class you’ve been thinking about. Making these habits part of your daily life will help you in the long term and you will surely thank us later for it. But, if you fancy that dessert one night, please go ahead. Remember to have fun once in a while!

If you want more tips for continuing the sugar reduction throughout winter — here's a how.

Meal prep with a twist

If the term ‘meal-prep’ fills you with dread, this is your reminder to lose the predictability and keep it fresh and exciting this season:

• Freestyle your week : Plan loosely, not rigidly. After all, you can never truly predict what you will fancy on the day. You may start by picking a theme for each day or week. Invent memorable names like ‘Meat-Free Monday’ or ‘Spicy Saturday’, you can then mix and match meals to suit your mood. We think flexibility keeps it a bit more interesting and intuitive.

• Make batch cooking beautiful : Prepare those meals boldly. Remember, the more colour, the better you are likely to feel! Spicy veggie stews or hearty roast trays are great for this. You can even store them in aesthetic containers of your choice that make you smile when you open the fridge. After all, a well stocked fridge is a happy fridge.

• Discover our Favourite Meal Prep Companies

Keep moving like you mean it

Don’t let the change in weather stop you! A weekly exercise routine doesn’t have to mean dragging yourself to the gym. Make it fun, and make it yours!

• Every little counts : If your workout is boring, the chances are you might not stick to it. For example, if your daily walk is getting a bit repetitive, change it up. Take a brisk stroll through the park, but turn it into a mini-adventure — explore a new path, get involved in nature and look for great photo spots.

• Upgrade your routine : As you progress, don’t just add more minutes — add more variety. Swap walking for dance breaks in your living room, or try out boxing or martial arts classes to let out your inner fighter.

Eating with Intention

Mindful eating shouldn’t be a chore — you can make it a moment to savour:

• Turn meals into rituals : Light a candle, get your favourite tunes on, and truly indulge in every single bite. Make these meals an experience, not just fuel.

• Hunger-hacking : At its heart, intuitive eating involves questioning your craving, what does it mean? What is your body signalling for you? Is it hunger, boredom, or something else? Keep a diary to track these findings. If it’s not down to hunger, but the sugar cravings keep hitting without explanation, distract yourself with something you love,like a creative task or a good book,and see if the craving passes.

Your health, your rules

You’ve got the tools, now it’s time to make the leap — see how the September reset works for you. It’s not just about cutting sugar — it’s about reclaiming your energy, sharpening your focus, and setting the stage for a healthier, more vibrant season ahead. Stick with it, and you may still feel the benefits long after September ends.