Ever wonder how much sugar you actually consume daily? The average American consumes over 150 pounds of sugar every year without even realizing it. This common ingredient stimulates the production of serotonin and dopamine in your brain, producing euphoric effects and increased energy. Researchers have found that sugar is eight times more addictive than cocaine. Even though people are living longer nowadays, sugar consumption affects their overall health.
The Side Effects of Sugar
Scientists refer to sugar as the white poison. Thousands of studies have linked it to an increased risk of diabetes, stroke, heart disease, high cholesterol, obesity, and mental disorders. A diet high in sugar triggers your liver to store fat, affects insulin response, and accelerates aging.
People who eat sugary foods are more likely to develop cancer and cardiovascular problems. That’s because sugar feeds cancer cells and damages your internal organs. It also causes your liver to churn out more bad cholesterol, increases your uric acid levels, and triggers metabolic syndrome.
How to Cut Down on Sugar
This toxic ingredient can be found in many products, from hot dogs and condiments to cake, bread, and ice cream. Most times, it’s hidden under different names, such as fructose, glucose, dextrose, agave syrup, high fructose corn syrup, invert sugar, and molasses. The only way to cut down on sugar is to read food labels carefully and buy whole, natural products.
Soda is one of the main sources of sugar in the modern diet. If you care about your health, eliminate soft drinks from your diet. Replace them with water, unsweetened herbal tea, and fresh vegetable juices. Swap sugar for stevia, cinnamon, or applesauce. Make your own dips and salad dressings. Buy whole grains instead of breakfast cereals and granola. Avoid store-brought fruit juices because they’re often packed with sugar.
Being mindful of what’s in your food will benefit your health tremendously!
