Like Pooh Bear and his honey jar, sweet treats are the comfort food of choice for many of us. Most of us (since childhood) unconsciously associate sugar with emotions of love, reward and pleasure.
Sugar after all, is a carbohydrate which fuels our brain and muscles. Eating sugar raises blood sugar levels and insulin…but the quick rise results in a quick crash causing the body to crave more. This is how sugar addiction begins.
Sugar in high amounts has been linked to poor glucose regulation, poor immune function, weight gain issues, digestive complaints and even poor brain function (attention deficit, poor memory, hyperactivity).
With the modern era and advanced food-processing techniques, several sugar substitutes have been created ranging from artificial sweeteners like saccharin, aspartame (Equal, Nutrasweet, Splenda). These products have fuelled controversy on the health risks and adverse effects of artificial sweeteners. This is due to the chemicals in these sweeteners that have known hazards. But some evidence indicates they are appropriate for diabetics or those trying to lose weight.
Members…what are your thoughts on sugar and artificial sweeteners?
