Sugar Consumption & Heart Disease
There are
many contributing factors that lead to cardiovascular disease, with chronic inflammation being number one. (We listed the
top 7 causes here.) That being said, there are also many contributing factors to chronic inflammation itself. One of the main culprits in overall inflammation throughout the body is sugar intake and we aren't talking about table sugar alone. We're also talking about
any kind of simple carbohydrate such as white bread, white rice, potatoes, and white flours, to name a few. Other names for sugar are fructose, sucrose, dextrose and high fructose corn syrup.
Did you know that sugar intake averages 25% of total calorie intake for Americans? That means that 1/4 of what the average American eats on a daily basis is either bread, rice, potatoes, white flour or some other type of sugar.
Current studies have shown that a high intake of sugars - especially high fructose corn syrup - can greatly increase inflammation throughout the body by promoting insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a condition in which the hormone insulin becomes less effective at lowering blood sugar levels and also plays a major role in atherosclerosis.
A high intake of sugar and simple carbohydrates can also lead to high triglyceride levels, which are converted into small, dense LDL cholesterol (the bad stuff) in the heart.
Those who consume a high amount of sugar in their diet have a much higher chance of developing cancer, inflammatory diseases, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and so much more.
A diet low in simple carbohydrates and processed foods but high in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats is the best way to avoid sugar and stay on a path of health and wellness.
Looking for a few dessert recipes to feed that sweet tooth of yours?! Don't worry. We've got you covered!
There are several easy, great recipes on the web for coconut bread - made from coconut flour. Gluten free and low in carbs, texture similar to corn bread. I substitute xylitol for sugar and sweeteners. Try it - I believe you will like it.
There are several easy, great recipes on the web for coconut bread - made from coconut flour. Gluten free and low in carbs, texture similar to corn bread. I substitute xylitol for sugar and sweeteners. Try it - I believe you will like it.
