Obesity. Diabetes. Even cancer. These are just a few of the health concerns that have been linked to consuming too much sugar, and Americans certainly eat a lot of it! The US Department of Agriculture reports the average individual consumes 156 pounds of sugar every year. Take it the global level, and the annual worldwide consumption of sugar is about 173 million tons.While we here at Sandstone Chiropractic definitely understand sugar’s allure, we can also suggest healthy ways to amend your eating habits to eliminate the health risks sugar brings along for the ride.
How Sugar Can Make Us Sick
Sugar’s link to cancer was uncovered in a study out of the University Rey Juan Carlos in Madrid. Researchers found that high sugar levels increase the activity of a gene widely implicated in the progression of cancer.
Another study, this one by JAMA Internal Medicine, found consuming high amounts of added sugar is associated with cardiovascular risk factors. Researchers observed a “significant relationship” between the amount of added sugar someone consumes and the risk of death from a cardiovascular issue. Skip the sugar to boost your health.
Excessive sugar consumption has also been linked to:
- Weakened immune system, higher susceptibility to illnesses
- Increased arthritis and joint pain
Eating a Healthy Diet
While the sugar content in some foods and beverages is obvious, the sugar content of others is a bit sneakier. Sugar shows up in spaghetti sauce, salad dressing and a host of other foods you may not necessarily expect.
Diligently reading the label on everything you eat is one way to keep your sugar intake at a healthy level. Opt for foods that have little to no added sugar and swap high-sugar fruits for vegetables.
If you must add sweetness, consider a natural, plant-based sweetener like Stevia. In addition to the sugar you get from your foods, the American Heart Association recommends a daily added sugar intake of about 6 teaspoons for women and 9 teaspoons for men.
Sandstone Chiropractic can also help you achieve and maintain optimum health through our chiropractic care and other services. Contact our Magnolia or Montgomery clinic today!