Addiction To Sugar May Be Worse Than You Think

Posted on Mar 07, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

The World Health Organization wants you to cut down on the amount of sugar you’re consuming. Of particular concern, WHO said, is the role sugar plays in causing dental diseases. The challenge, however, is that sugar can be so addictive, it has been compared to opium.

From 1950 to 2000, the USDA says American consumption of sugar increased 39%. On average, Americans consume about three pounds of sugar every week.

However, some of our sugar addiction may have developed without our knowledge. This occurred, in some cases, because consumers demanded foods that were lower in fat. Therefore, manufacturers lowered the fat while substituting sugar to preserve the taste.

Some manufacturers add sugars in forms other than high fructose corn sugars to sweeten foods and beverages. These include honey, syrups, fruit juices and fruit concentrates; still sugar in these forms. The American population also unknowingly consumes sugars that are ‘hidden’ in processed foods. For example, you’ll find sugar in frozen pizza, yogurt, mayonnaise, catsup, bread and many soups.

Recommended daily intake is actually six teaspoons a day, or about the amount in a can of regular soda. So, how do you wean yourself off of sugar? Begin by reading labels, of everything! For every sugar gram, multiply by four to get the sugar calories per serving.

Then, begin lowering your amount of sugar on a daily basis. Drink plain water with meals rather than a can of soda. Each month, adjust your diet so you are moving away from sugar in any form.

Sugar creates the worst onset on oral bacteria of anything you can consume. Protect your smile and your overall health by making simple changes on a gradual basis. You’ll find it’s easier than you may think!