The “NOT SO” Sweet Side of Sugar

Sugar is a hot topic these days, and for good reason. Excessive sugar consumption can have a detrimental effect on your health. I am not suggesting you can’t enjoy a treat or two occasionally, but beware. Today’s typical western diet is full of hidden sugars and consumers are unaware. The adverse side effects of too much sugar can result in an array of health concerns including premature aging.

Yes, sugar can cause wrinkles. Research has shown that advanced glycation due to sugar can cause damage to elastin and break down collagen in the skin. In addition to sagging skin, sugar can lead to many other health conditions as well.

1. Sugar can contribute to the break down of collagen resulting in premature aging.
2. Sugar causes imflammation in the body. Imflamation is the leading contributor to most diseases and health conditions.
3. Sugar can lead to a fatty liver. Our bodies use insulin to normalize our blood sugar levels when we eat. However, if we continue to over tax our system with excessive sugar, we can develop “insulin resistance” which could lead to Type 2 Diabetes. Excess fructose in the body is coverted to fat in the liver. The build up of fat in the liver can lead to weight gain and elevated cholesterol levels as well.
4. Sugar affects our immune system by weakening the white blood cell activity. A strong immune system is vital because it is our primary defense to ward off infection.
5. Sugar can be addictive. Sugar activates opiate receptors in our brains. The more we eat sugar the more our brains become “hardwired” to crave sugar. This can become a vicious cycle that it hard to break.
6. Sugar can lead to hormonal imbalances, including your libido. There are many factors that contribute to hormonal imbalances such as stress, lack of exercise, poor sleep and diet. Sugar is also a culprit.

You may be nervous to ever consume sugar again after reading the list of health issues you could anticipate. Instead, I would recommend to enjoy lots of organic fruits, fresh vegetables, grass fed meats and lots of clean water. Be attuned to what you put in your body. Avoid processed and packaged food. Eat wisely and experience optimal health.