We all know sugar is bad…but how bad is it?
We are constantly bombarded with sugar filled food that keeping your sugar levels low is a constant battle within. So let’s put it this way… sugar is as bad as excessive drinking and drug addiction. You think this comparison is too much?
How do we break down sugar?
When you consume added sugar, it is broken down into glucose and fructose. Glucose is a simple sugar, described as the building block of carbohydrates, and is easily absorbed in the bloodstream, and is therefore used to maintain energy levels within our bodies. Fructose however, can only be broken down by the liver. Liver needs to break down fructose into glucose before it can be utilised in the body. So just like alcohol can only be broken down by the liver, both alcohol and sugar cause that ‘extra’ work to be done by the liver. If you eat sugar from fruit, this is not a problem. Fructose is found in processed foods and when eaten in excess, the liver converts it into fat. This can have negative effects on triglyceride level and is a marker of the heart disease.
Why is it so difficult to resist those sugar cravings?
The amount of sugar you consume daily, results in energy dips, making you feel like you need another piece of chocolate to make you feel better. Sugar is described as being addictive as your brain adapts to release dopamine (“feel good” chemicals) each time you consume sugars. So next time you eat sugar, your body would require more sugar to get the same level of satisfaction. This can result in days of sugar cravings.
Here is your quick fix!
Luckily our body can recover. By reducing the sugar consumptions and avoiding junk food at all cost will help normalize metabolism and brain function so we’re immune to the sweet temptations that we are constantly bombarded with. In the 21st century we are spoilt for choice with all the healthy snacking alternatives that you can take to help you overcome your sugar addiction. Need not to mention the zero compromise on taste!
- Avoid those high sugar cereals, replace it with a nice recipe of overnight oats or Instant Oats
- Keep track of your food using MyFitness Pal to help track of your sugar intakes
- Avoid skipping meals, by planning ahead
- Snack less frequently, and on high protein, low sugar foods such as Oatein Low Sugar Flapjacks or Oatein Millionaire Crunch
- Avoid sugary drinks, if you want flavoured water try out these vitamin waters
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