Sugar is a staple in many diets, although there is a lot of misunderstanding around it. You can improve your health decisions by learning the facts and myths about sugar. You should be aware of these eight common misconceptions around sugar:
8 Big Lies About Sugar
1. “Sugar Causes Hyperactivity in Children”
The idea that sugar makes kids hyperactive is a popular misconception. Scientific studies have not consistently backed this assertion, contrary to common opinion. There is no evidence that children who consume sugar exhibit hyperactive behaviour, according to several research. Perhaps it’s not the sugar itself but the stimulating setting, like a birthday party, that causes the effect, rather than the sugar itself.
2. “Natural Sugars Are Healthier Than Added Sugars”
People often believe that natural sugars derived from foods like fruits, vegetables, and dairy are better for them than artificial sugars. Sugar, whether natural or added, influences blood sugar levels; however, the fibre and other nutrients included in whole meals, such as fruits, aid in sugar metabolism and mitigate its effects. The most important thing is to eat complete foods in moderation, not to compare natural and added sugars side by side.
3. “Sugar-Free Products Are Always Healthier”
There is a widespread belief that sugar-free options are better for you. But sugar-free doesn’t always imply better for you. Many of these items include artificial sweeteners, which can pose their own set of risks to consumers’ health. Even sugar-free snacks could have a lot of calories, fat, or other bad stuff in them. Rather than concentrating only on the lack of sugar, it is essential to review the complete nutritional profile of these items.
4. “Consuming Sugar Leads to Diabetes”
Consuming an excessive amount of sugar can lead to obesity, which in turn increases the chance of developing type 2 diabetes. However, it is important to note that sugar does not directly cause diabetes. Hereditary factors, lack of physical activity, and dietary habits all have a role in the development of type 2 diabetes. Excessive consumption of sugary foods, when coupled with other risk factors, can increase the likelihood of developing diabetes, however moderate sugar consumption within a balanced diet does not cause the disease in and of itself.
5. “Sugar is as Addictive as Drugs”
The assertion that sugar is just as addicting as narcotics is, however, somewhat unfounded. While it’s true that sugar can activate the same reward centres in the brain as addictive substances, the addictive behaviour that some people experience is not the same as drug addiction. Scientists are still debating whether or not sugar addiction exists, and the physical consequences are less severe than those of drug dependence.
6. “Sugar Causes Cancer”
It is false to believe that sugar is a primary cause of cancer. There is no proof that sugar causes cancer directly, but it can lead to obesity, which in turn increases the risk of several cancers. There is less evidence linking sugar consumption to the development of cancer and more evidence linking sugar to its effects on general health and weight.
7. “All Sugars Are Created Equal”
Regarding their effects on health, different types of sugar are not equivalent. While it’s true that all sugars add calories and can influence blood sugar levels, the specific impacts of various sugar sources can differ. For example, the sugars in whole fruits have a less effect on blood sugar since they also contain fibre, vitamins, and minerals. But processed foods’ excessive sugars and high-fructose corn syrup may wreak havoc on your health in an instant.
8. “Cutting Out Sugar Completely Is the Only Way to Be Healthy”
Many people think that in order to be healthy, they must completely cut out sugar from their diet. A total sugar ban isn’t required for everyone, but cutting back can improve health in the long run, particularly when taken in excess. A healthy diet can include tiny amounts of sugar without negatively impacting health, therefore moderation is crucial. Instead of trying to cut off sugar entirely, cut back on refined items and added sugars.