Sugar - why you should cut down

SUGAR – Why you should avoid it

This week sugar and the negative effect it has on our bodies has featured in several news articles so here are the facts that you need to bear in mind when reviewing your sugar intake:

Firstly, in really simple terms: Sugar can play havoc with your weight, hormones, energy, and give you tooth decay. Eating sugar offers you ’empty’ calories – i.e. no benefit and lots of potential for harm. Therefore you should be looking to reduce your sugar intake.

When you shop, look at the labels of everything you buy. Sugar can be found in a surprising array of foods. Be especially careful when buying breakfast cereal and processed food such as ready prepared meals, including soups or cooking sauces since these often contain unexpectedly high levels of sugar.

Run through the list of negative effects below to remind yourself of why you should be avoiding sugar:
- Consuming sugar makes your blood sugar levels rise quickly. The pancreas is stimulated, it produces insulin to stabilise the blood sugar levels. Insulin is known to promote the storage of fat so more sugar = more insulin = more fat stored.
- The high level of insulin production not only encourages the body to store fat, but is the main risk factor in diabetes.
- High blood sugar levels damage artery walls, making it easier for cholesterol and fat to build up. This causes heart disease and high blood pressure.
- A raised insulin level affects the immune system lowering resistance to disease.
- Sugar puts stress on the kidneys and can interfere with absorption of some essential minerals. This can contribute to osteoporosis.
- Sugar can cause free radical formation in the blood, this causes damage to each cell in your body. It speeds up the ageing process which you’ll see as wrinkles. Some studies have suggested that it also speeds the deterioration of brain cells and contributes to dementia.
- Sugar can increase fermentation during the digestion process causing bloating.
- Since insulin is a hormone it is an intrinsic part of the body’s hormonal balance. Abnormal variations in that balance are known to cause fatigue, depression, weight gain, fluid retention, and so on.

For all these reasons cut down your sugar intake and enjoy better health!

The Studio News 02/01/14

• This weeks newsletter with up to date availability for classes and massage. Information about Myofascial Release Technique, a subtle yet effective treatment for tightness in muscles and fascia which causes pain. Plus, Manual lymphatic drainage to help with swelling and boost your immune system. Help with making and keeping new years resolutions and easy tips to follow to help keep healthy through the winter.
• Read the full newsletter...