How Sugars and Added Sugars Impact Health and Weight

Sugar plays a central role in many of our favorite dishes and treats, yet an over-reliance on this sweet substance can lead to a myriad of health issues, including weight gain. Let's delve into how sugars and added sugars can impact your health and weight.

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Understanding Sugars and Added Sugars

'Sugar' refers to simple carbohydrates, such as glucose, fructose, and sucrose, which naturally occur in foods like fruit and milk. 'Added sugars' are sugars and syrups added to foods and drinks when they are processed or prepared.

The Impact of Sugars on Health

A small amount of naturally occurring sugars in a balanced diet isn’t harmful. However, a diet high in added sugars can lead to:

Weight Gain

Added sugars, especially in sugary drinks, can lead to weight gain and obesity. They provide empty calories, meaning they have no nutritional value but contribute to your total calorie intake.

Type 2 Diabetes

Frequent spikes in blood sugar can cause insulin resistance, a precursor to Type 2 Diabetes.

Heart Disease

High-sugar diets can lead to obesity, inflammation, high triglyceride levels, and diabetes, all risk factors for heart disease.

Tooth Decay

Sugars provide food for harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to tooth decay.

The Impact of Sugars on Weight

The link between sugar and weight gain is primarily due to the high calorie content of sugar-laden foods and drinks. Consuming more calories than your body can burn will inevitably lead to weight gain.

Empty Calories

Added sugars are considered 'empty calories' as they contribute to your daily calorie intake without providing any essential nutrients.

Overeating

High-sugar foods are often low in fiber and protein, leaving you unsatisfied and likely to overeat.

Sugar Cravings

Sugar can trigger the release of dopamine, the 'feel-good' hormone. This can lead to cravings and overconsumption of high-sugar foods.

Conclusion

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In conclusion, while sugars are an essential part of our diet, it's the added sugars we need to watch out for. By opting for a balanced diet with less added sugar, you can significantly improve your health and manage your weight more effectively. With SunBasket and HomeChef, embracing a healthier, low-sugar lifestyle is just a click away.