The Great Sugar Scandal

On March 4, 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO) isued 

A high intake of sugar leads to inflammation, which is the root cause of many chronic diseases. Immunity—the ability to fight off illness—is also lowered by a high sugar intake and the excess kilojoules associated with sugar can lead to weight gain and even obesity. 

What’s the primary source of sugar in the Western diet? You probably guessed it: soft drinks. One can of soft drink contains about 33 grams of sugar. Even if you only have a can a week, that adds up to two kilograms of sugar per year! Lollies and the sugar that’s added to food and drinks contribute 16 per cent of the sugar we consume. The rest comes from fruit drinks, ice-cream and refined grains. 

How much is too much?

Less is best when it comes to added sugars. A study from the American Heart Association cocluded that sugar should be limited to 25 grams per day for women and no more than 35 grams per day for men. If a person has challenges with blood sugar or high triglycerides, less than 16 grams is recommended per day.

So how much sugar is enough and how much is too much? The best plan is to remember the sugar consumption recommendations listed above. It’s true that honey, molasses and maple syrup may contribute some useful trace minerals, 

The best sweets are fresh fruits that have plenty of fibre and water. When you’re used to eating a lot of sweets and refined sugar, your taste buds get used to the high intensity of sweetness and fruit may seem less than inviting and “just not sweet enough.” However, after a few days of reducing the consumption of foods with added sugar, your taste buds will adapt and you’ll find that fruit is indeed delightfully sweet and satisfying. 

So start eating more of the “good stuff.” Frequent the produce department at your supermarket. Enjoy a variety of colours in foods. Focus on