The Sweet Impact: A Sugar-Free Transformation

In previous weeks, we explored the issues surrounding white sugar consumption. Following that, many asked if sugar could also affect children's behavior.

Allow me to answer through a story about a boy and a teenager who came to my clinic. A few months ago, an 11-year-old boy visited me with a clear issue: hyperactivity. As soon as he entered the room, he began touching everything. It was impossible to speak with the parents because he constantly interrupted, asked questions, and wouldn't let anyone speak.

For several months, he was on Ritalin but suffered severe side effects. His situation was so challenging that the school administration informed the parents that if no suitable solution was found, he would have to find a different setting.

I asked the child about his favorite food. Unsurprisingly, he said his diet mainly consisted of sugar-laden foods: candies, croissants, cola, and even alcohol. Alcohol turns into sugar in the body, serving as another way he consumed sugar. I suggested the whole family switch to a sugar-free diet to help him cope with sugar avoidance. Remarkably, it worked. He suddenly stopped eating sweets, and the school was amazed: the boy transformed beyond recognition into a gentle, calm, and composed student.

The second case involved a 16-year-old yeshiva student who couldn't concentrate. He roamed the yeshiva kitchen and was unable to sit and study, though everyone knew he was a very talented individual. I asked about his main food source. His response was that he mainly ate croissants, pizzas, carbohydrates, and sugars. I suggested he avoid these foods and start eating nutritious ones: vegetables, whole grain bread, nuts, and almonds, and for sweetness, dates and fruits—natural sugars.

This was not easy, especially in the yeshiva environment away from home, but he managed to do it. Again, the results were quick. A discussion with the yeshiva supervisor revealed that the boy had started learning, and his talents were beginning to shine.

Eliyahu Schecter is an iridologist and natural therapist