How much sugar do you consume?
First lets define what is sugar, specifically refined sugar.
What is refined sugar?
Definition: Refined carbohydrates are produced when whole plants which are high in carbohydrates are processed in a way to strip out everything but the highly digestible carbohydrate (starch or sugar). This has the effect of concentrating the carbohydrate and/or breaking it down so that the body processes it very quickly, generally causing a high rise in blood sugar (glycemic response). It also usually removes the fiber and most of the nutrients in the food.
Typically, refined sugar refers to white sugar, however, it can refer to several other added sugars. Check your labels at home… are the following ingredients included: sucrose, glucose, fructose, maltose dextrose, lactose, high fr
uctose corn syrup, molasses, honey, evaporated cane juice, fruit juice concentrates, cane crystals or corn sweetener.
Guess what… its all refined sugar! And they can be found in peanut butter, pasta sauce, soups, broth, salad dressing and ketchup to name a few.
The problem with refined sugar is the lack of healthy nutrients and the inability to make you feel full… So you keep eating it. People who consume excessive amounts of sugar may be overweight, however they may also be malnourished. Foods high in sugar only provide empty calories.
Fruit contains many benefits compared to refined sugar. The have plenty of vitamins, minerals and are an excellent source of fibre. The fibre in fruit expands in your stomach making you feel full.
Not only are the foods you eat loaded with sugar, so are your drinks and your baked goods too. Take a look at your soda, sweetened tea, lemonade and fruit juice.
Sugar is addictive!
Avoid buying foods that have any of the sugars listed above contained in the ingredient list.
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Karen Fleury’s – Clean Eating With Benefits
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E-Mail: karen@cleaneatingwithbenefits.com
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