Sugar: The Driver of Chronic Health Conditions

Sugar is America’s number one food additive, and many healthcare providers consider refined sugar the primary nemesis of American health today. There is strong evidence that refined sugar contributes to tooth decay, obesity, nutrient deficiencies, hypoglycemia, and diabetes. It can increase total cholesterol and decrease good cholesterol levels (HDL). Refined sugar and chemical additives such as artificial colors and flavors are suspected of causing behavioral problems in children.
Even if you don’t eat sweets, the amount of refined sugar you may be consuming will shock you. Over two-thirds of the refined sugar used in this country is added to manufactured food products. It’s hidden in many of the things we buy at the supermarket. For example, a tablespoon of ketchup contains a full teaspoon of sugar. Stuff like bread, soups, cereals, hot dogs, lunch meat, salad dressings, spaghetti sauce, crackers, mayonnaise, peanut butter, pickles, frozen pizza, and canned fruits and vegetables all contain sugar….IT IS EVERYWHERE, and this doesn’t take into account the obvious sugary products like candies, cakes, ice cream, cookies, and soda pop.
Whether natural or refined, all sugar eaten requires B-complex vitamins, calcium, and magnesium for digestion. Complex carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables, and starches, contain enough of these nutrients to assist our bodies in their digestion. However, refined sugars are stripped of all its nutrients during the refining process. Therefore, our bodies must call upon their stores of these nutrients in order to deal with it.
Refined sugar is often responsible for many common chronic health complaints. Try removing it for just 2-3 weeks, and you may be amazed to find some of your long-standing symptoms will improve or even completely disappear. Your sleep and energy will improve. Headaches, joint, and muscle pain can disappear, and your stomach may no longer rumble or bloat.
Build your daily diet around an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and starches to keep your blood sugar level on an even keel, to prevent the up and down “yo-yo” effect of sweets made with refined sugar. As your blood-sugar level stabilizes, you will find yourself craving less refined sugar products.
Try unrefined sweeteners, such as pure maple syrup, raw honey, or coconut sugar. These sugars have minerals and vitamins intact, making them less stressful on the body. They also are less addicting, and some, like coconut sugar, don’t raise blood sugar as much. Stevia is an excellent choice for those wanting something sweet without calories or any rise in blood sugar. For more information, please call Compassionate Healthcare Associates at 661.295.7777.