Mounting studies continue to show just how much sugar negatively affects our health.
One recent study showed the intake of food with high levels of sugar could lead to serious ailments such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. We consume plenty sugar when we eat processed foods which contain sugar.
However, the effects caused by consuming sugar can be prevented and reversed. We have the option to go on low-sugar diets, but these regimens take time before effects manifest. Or, if we cut back on sugar, we may experience immediate benefits to our overall health.
In a study conducted by Dr. Robert Lustig and researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, they were able to lower the triglyceride levels of children by 33 points. The children’s LDL cholesterol levels also dropped by an average of 5 points, as well as their blood pressure readings. After the 10-day study, the participants’ risk of type 2 diabetes was reduced.
Although the researchers focused on children, the results of the study could be applied to adults as well.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation recommended that no more than 10% of a 2000 calorie diet should come from added sugars. We do not need these sugars to function because they have zero nutritional benefits to our bodies. However, it’s hard to avoid sugar because it is found in various forms and disguised as different names. Watch out for the following names of added sugars:
• glucose/fructose
• high fructose corn syrup
• corn syrup, sucrose
• maltose
• dextrose
• beet sugar,
• glucose solids
• cane sugar
• dehydrated cane juice
• dextrin
• Maltodextrin
Although you may fail to notice it, sugar can addictive. You will most likely realise its effect on your lifestyle once you try to go on without it. There are also other studies which show sugar to be as addictive as hard drugs. Even if you are hooked on sugar or not, you should try your best to avoid adding lots of sugar into your diet.
By: Aimee Harris-Newon, Psy.D., D.A.B.P.S., C.Ht