Why Sugar may be Harmful to our Health

A sad reality is that most of us are used to adding sugar or sugary additives to our diets. There is a growing body of expert opinion around the world known as the no sugar movement. The movement stresses and warns of the fact that the rate at which humans are consuming sugar is getting to an uncontrollable level. Sugar poses a risk to human health, whether added to food by the manufacturer or by you. Scientists have added that calories differ in terms of amount, same as monosaccharides or the simplest sugar forms. Basically, table sugar or sucrose is not degraded in a manner that is similar to that of a complex carbohydrate like flour.

In an analysis conducted across 175 countries, it was established that the total amount of calories consumed is not relevant when investigating its role in heightening diabetes risk. The specific calorie count is what matters when doing such an analysis. However, this does not mean that we should stop eating fruits such as apples, oranges and grapes because they contain sugars. The fructose contained in such fruits is insignificant. It is however, essential to regulate the degree or amount of fruits consumed. The harmful products are sugar sources such as maple syrup, corn syrup and honey. In comparison to fruits, such products contain higher levels of fructose.

The rates of obesity are steadily skyrocketing because of excessive sugar consumption. Currently, approximately 26% of people in the UK are obese while fifty percent are overweight. Obesity is a condition that is mostly linked to chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. It may also be linked to decreased life expectancy and disability in old age. Other severe chronic conditions that may arise include osteoarthritis, diabetes and hypertension.