I believe that staying away from sugar is easier than trying to eat it in moderation. Most Americans definitely exceed the American Heart Association (“AHA”) recommendation for daily consumption. The AHA recommends that females consume no less than 6 teaspoons of added sugar a day, and men no more than 9 teaspoons per day. If you drink coke, then a 12 oz soda can will put females over their limit, and men close to their limit: a 12 oz can of Coke contains 8 teaspoons of sugar. You really want to limit your sugar consumption for many reasons.
Last week I posted a blog on how to avoid sugar cravings. This post describes why you want to stay away from sugar.
Studies show that the amount of sugar in the blood sets up a molecular effect called “glycation” which ultimately leaves your skin less firm and elastic. Research shows that cutting your sugar intake can reduce visible signs of aging. So, if you want to look good, then stay away from sugar.
Studies have also shown that eating sugar creates fat around your vital organs such as your liver, pancreas, and intestines. It’s hard to get rid of this type of fat. This type of fat, known as “visceral fat,” is a known risk factor for heart disease and diabetes. To back up these assertions, one study has proven that individuals that consumer more sugar-sweetened beverages have higher levels of visceral fat.
People think, wrongly, that sugar gives you energy. Added sugars (as opposed to naturally occurring sugars in fruits are vegetables) are simple carbohydrates. This means they are digested fast and enter your bloodstream quickly. However, with the sugar crash that will come, you will feel that you don’t have energy. So, when you need a snack, stay with high protein/fat snacks that are low in sugar. Nuts or almond butter are always a great choice.
Also, studies show a strong correlation between sugar consumption and weight gain. So, when you have a choice, buy a protein or healthy-fat snack, instead of a snack loaded with sugar.
Lastly, there is another study that found individuals who eat a high intake of sugar have a high probability of heart disease. So, next time that you are hungry and are grabbing that candy bar, make a conscious choice and opt for the bag of almonds or Justin’s almond butter.
