Sugar is a commonly used food additive. Sugar is found naturally in fruit, vegetables, milk and honey. It is also added to other foods and beverages like sodas, juices, and desserts to sweeten them.
Our brain requires sugar for proper functioning. So you would wonder why sugar is bad for us if it is so essential for the functioning of the brain. The problem arises when we consume more sugar than we need to, and even when that sugar is processed and not natural. In a recent study, excess sugar has been linked to cancer.
How sugar effect cancer cells?
Every cell in your body requires sugar (glucose) for energy. All cells in your body consume sugar as they grow and divide. But the problem arises when you consume more than you need to.
In a recent study, it was found that high sugar levels in the body activated a gene responsible for cancer progression. High sugar levels in the intestine increase the activity of a protein known as Beta-Catenine. Increased activity of Beta-Catenine is known to be responsible for the development of many cancers. In fact, the activity of Beta-Catenine is strictly dependant on sugar levels.
Basically, high sugar levels in the body lead to increased activity of Beta Catenine, which makes normal cells cancerous.
Here are some tips regarding use of sugar which you need to watch out for to reduce your risk of cancer due to sugar consumption: • Check nutrition labels to help you avoid foods high in sugar. Here are some hidden “sugar” words to look out for: • fructose (natural sugar from fruits) • lactose (natural sugar from milk) • sucrose (made from fructose and glucose) • maltose (sugar made from grain) • glucose (simple sugar, product of photosynthesis) • dextrose (form of glucose) • Drink water or unsweetened fruit juice instead of soft drinks and juices. Try diluting fruit juice with sparkling water if you find it hard to give up sweetened sodas. • Gradually reduce the amount of sugar you add in your coffee or tea. • Have a piece of fruit when you’re craving something sweet. Have a slice of melon or fresh berries with a low-fat yogurt instead of cookies for a mid-afternoon snack. • Choose whole grain breakfast cereals that are not coated with sugar or honey. If you find it hard to get used to the new taste, try sprinkling a little bit of sugary cereal on top of your healthier option at first. Then use a little less each day. • Try using half the amount of sugar you would normally use in your recipes. It works for most things except jam, meringues and ice cream. • Choose natural sugars such as honey, molassess and fruits over artificial sweeteners. Natural sugars contain anti-oxidants which help to prevent cancer.
Excess sugar consumption not only increases your risks of obesity, diabetes and insulin resistance, but even increases your risk for cancer. There is more and more reason to stay from processed and unnecessary sugar.