Did you know the Australian health survey tells us that we consume 22kg of free sugars each year, which equates to around 14 teaspoons of sugar each day? Most of us are unaware of how much “hidden” sugar we  are actually consuming on a daily basis.

Too much sugar can have real impacts on our bodies, including lower energy, mood swings,  interrupted sleep, inflamed skin, dental decay and increased heart disease risk. 

By drawing our attention to our sugar intake, Sugar Free September’s goal is to educate and inspire  everyone to make healthier food choices that last all year long. 

As exclusive nutrition Partner, we will be hosting regular live Q & A chats, providing evidence-based nutrition resources, and actively managing nutrition questions in the Sugar Free September Facebook Group.

Our own team will also be participating in the Sugar Free September challenge – please help us reach our fundraising goal by making a secure tax deductible donation!

About Sugar Free September 

Sugar Free September challenges Aussies to give up added and refined sugar for the month of September to  raise funds and awareness for kids, adults and families impacted by muscular dystrophy, a rare muscle  wasting disease with no cure. The challenge also promotes healthy food and lifestyle choices and aims to  empower all Aussies to live longer, happier lives. 

When 1 – 30 September 

How Sign up > make a team > fundraise > give up added & refined sugar during September Why Give sweet opportunities to kids and adults living with the daily challenges of progressive muscle  wasting conditions like Muscular Dystrophy 

Support Tips, inspiration and guidance from the Sugar Free September team, expert health advice from  Nutrition Australia, free fitness program from Peaches Pilates, meal kits from Able Foods and prizes from  amazing Australian food brands and local businesses. 

The benefits of taking on the challenge 

How you’re helping:

• Help Others – Feel great empowering kids and adults with MD. 
• More Energy – Ditch sugar crashes for energy all day long. 
• Better Sleep – Fall asleep easier and snooze right through the night. 
• Learn About Nutrition – Get clued up with our expert advice, recipes, tips and guides.
• Clearer Skin – Reduce breakouts and inflammation for more youthful skin. 
• Create Good Habits – Learn how to swap hidden sugars for whole foods at every meal.
• Happier Teeth – Stop build up and decay to save money at the dentist. 
• Safer Heart – Lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Your fund and awareness raising will help provide access to vital services for the muscular dystrophy community, including:

• Camps, Retreats and Independent Living Skills Programs
• Peer Connect Program
• Community Access & Recreation Service (CARS)
• Family Support

What is muscular dystrophy? 

Muscular Dystrophy (MD) is a lifelong disease with no known cure. There are over 30 types of neuromuscular conditions, commonly referred to as muscular dystrophy. The disease is characterised by weakening and wasting away of muscle tissue. MD is caused by a breakdown between specific nerve cells and muscles. 

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most well known MD, and affects young boys from 2  years old and survival beyond 20s is rare. MD is an inherited genetic disease that is only detected through very expensive pre-natal testing.

6-25 years old is the average age of our members living with MD. Muscular dystrophy can occur at any age, but most diagnoses occur in childhood. Young boys are more likely to have this disease than girls. 

Many individuals with MD lose the ability to walk and eventually require a wheelchair.

About Muscular Dystrophy NSW 

Muscular Dystrophy NSW is a membership-based not-for-profit organisation supporting and  connecting people with neuromuscular conditions (muscular dystrophy) and their families. We are here for our members at each stage of life, including in times of transition when they might  not know what to expect next.  We maintain a continuity of support, providing information, services and advice along the way,  throughout all life stages. What makes us different from other providers is that we provide services exclusively for people  living with muscular dystrophy or other neuromuscular conditions, allowing us to focus  on their specific needs and anticipate future supports.