Sugar is a naturally occurring substance that provides energy for your body’s cells, but it can be dangerous to your health when consumed in high amounts. Excessive sugar consumption has been linked to a variety of health issues such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease and high cholesterol, not to mention tooth decay. Today, debate rages over whether sugar is addictive, with some research showing that sugar produces the same brain chemical reactions and behavioral reactions as illicit drugs like heroin.
Sugar Consumption Explosion of the 20th Century
The concerns start with the fact that today Americans consume over 150 pounds of sugar every year. This is a radical change from the way Americans used to eat. In 1700, people consumed only about four pounds of sugar in a year. By 1800 that was up to 18 pounds per year and by 1900 it was up to about 90 pounds of sugar per person, per year. But the greatest shift occurred in the 1950s with the introduction of high fructose corn syrup.
About Dr. Soram Khalsa
As an MD, Dr Soram specializes in Integrative Medicine combining diet, nutrition, acupuncture, herbs and nutrition. Visit Dr Soram’s Healthy Living Store where you’ll find high-quality nutritional supplements:
