A study published by the JAMA Internal Medicine found that more than 70 percent of Americans consume more than the recommended daily amount of sugar. Sadly, most of us are addicted to sugar, which happens to be hidden in most of the foods and drinks we consume. Added sugar can cause a whole array of problems that can be short term as well as long term. If you are experiencing health problems, lowering your sugar intake may be one of your best options. Below are 6 truths about the ugly side of sweets.
No Nutrients
Refined sugar has no nutritional value and can interfere with the absorption of important vitamins that your body needs. It is recommended to consume as little as possible. The first step in eliminating sugar is to stop consuming drinks such as soda, fruit juice and mixed alcoholic drinks. Because of the large amounts of sweetener in these drinks, it can make them very addictive and hard to quit drinking.
Harms Your Liver
Sugar can be just as damaging on your liver as alcohol and lead to fatty liver disease. When you consume too much fructose, your body becomes insulin resistant resulting in various problems that can cause disease. Beware of foods containing high fructose corn syrup.
Raises Cholesterol
One study done in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that participants who ate the highest levels of added sugars showed the biggest increase in bad cholesterol levels and triglyceride blood fats and the lowest levels in the good cholesterol levels.
Leading Cause of Obesity
In America, sugar is one of the leading culprits of obesity. It is estimated that 80 percent of food products in the U.S. contain added sugar. The best way to lose weight and lower your risk of obesity is to eliminate all processed foods and drinks.
Bad For Your Teeth
It should be a no-brainer that sugar is bad for your teeth. You may remember growing up having the dentist tell you as a kid to eat less candy to prevent cavities? As an adult, we know it’s not only candy that will cause cavities, but sugar that is found in your favorite drinks and everyday foods as well. Best way to sustain healthy teeth and gums? Cut the processed and refined sugar.
Can Lead To Type 2 Diabetes
When your body is consuming too much sugar, your glucose levels become too high, which can be toxic to your body. When this happens, your body has a harder time producing enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels normal. This can then lead to type 2 diabetes.
Happy Summer!
We hope you are enjoying this summer. This is a time for playing outside, vacations, picnics and swimming. Here’s the Chinese medicine view of summer.
Summer is a great time to think about what you want to accomplish for your health goals. Maybe you want to eliminate food cravings, lose weight, or end anxiety and insomnia? Whatever it is you have come to the right place.
You can use Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to go way beyond the band aid approach of treating symptoms and eliminate the root cause of your health problems. If you’re not feeling your best this summer don’t let this time go by without listening to your body and attending to your needs. Set up an appointment TODAY for optimal health. Call us at 952-831-8080 or fill out our contact form.
Have a great summer!
Steven Sonmore, Licensed Acupuncturist
Complete Oriental Medical Care
952-831-8080
