Why is sugar so harmful?

Sugar is one of the most consumed foods by humans, as it releases serotonin in our brains, making us feel good, cheerful, and even euphoric; experts say it can be as addictive as a drug. Centuries ago, it was a luxury that few could afford; today it is extremely cheap and found in most processed products; from the most obvious, like chocolates and candies, to the less thought of, like tomato puree. Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended reducing sugar consumption due to a 300% increase in its intake over the last 50 years. The high consumption of sugar is associated with multiple modern diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cancer, as well as cardiovascular diseases, liver issues, and dental problems like cavities. Sugars are not only found in processed foods; they are also present in fruits, cereals, milk, etc. However, the harmful consequences for our health lie in industrialized sugars, as they are not accompanied by other nutrients and become empty calories, which are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, drastically increasing glucose and triglyceride levels in the blood. When buying processed foods, it is important to read the labels as they contain all the necessary information about what they include, but be careful!, do not be fooled, as sugar is called by different names, such as Glucose, Dextrose, Sucrose, Fructose, Corn Syrup, High Fructose Corn Syrup, Levulose, Lactose, and Maltose. So whenever you see the labels and read those strange names you have no idea about, try to investigate what they are. As a general rule, we recommend that when buying processed products, they contain no more than five ingredients and be cautious if the names seem like tongue twisters; it's better to buy products with ingredients you recognize and know are healthy. To avoid consuming so much sugar, there are other options on the market that are natural and have fewer health repercussions. For example: Stevia It is undoubtedly the most sought-after sugar substitute by health-conscious people today. This plant that sweetens our preparations contains no calories, therefore it does not raise blood glucose levels and can sweeten up to 300 times more than regular sugar. Honey This sweetener has been on our tables for centuries and was extremely important in Europe until the 16th century when sugar became more accessible. It adds a unique flavor to dishes it sweetens and can be obtained in different flavors. Note that it does contain calories, but it sweetens 1.5 times more, so you will need a smaller amount. Agave syrup This has a low glycemic index, meaning the level of glucose we have in the blood after consuming a food, making the syrup a healthier option. Maple syrup This is a concentrated extract from the sap of the maple tree, has an extraordinary flavor, and sweetens 1.5 times more than regular sugar. Be careful when buying it as they often sell corn syrup and coloring, so make sure it is 100% maple syrup. Piloncillo Although it is a derivative of sugarcane, like table sugar, piloncillo has less refinement and contains vitamins and minerals. It could be said that it is a type of whole sugar. The sweet taste in foods is something that has always attracted us, but in the case of sugar, it is better to consume it in moderation as excess consumption brings very serious consequences, one of which is obesity. By the way, recently our country has taken the first place for countries with the highest obesity rates from the United States, according to a study conducted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. See the original article here. Recommended Recipes