Gilmore Girl asks: "Why is processed sugar so bad for you?"

Answer: I get this question a lot because processed sugar is found in many products we passively eat on a day-to-day basis.

The main reason why refined sugar (which includes white and brown sugar) is not the best health choice is because it's processed. That means it's been stripped of all its nutrients. 

Digesting food requires internal energy. The food we eat should contain a basic nutrient base in order to replenish the nutrients used when producing the energy required to digest food. 

To that end processed sugar is a nutrient-void food and depletes our system of nutrients and energy when we eat it. 

Refined sugar also causes our body to release a surge of insulin from our pancreas, resulting in a sharp rise in our blood glucose/sugar levels.

This can make us feel ungrounded, unfocused, or anxious. Over time, the insulin surge caused by refined sugar can result in an increased risk to our body cells becoming insensitive to insulin.

This may lead to the development of type 2 diabetes. Refined sugar decreases the active components of our immune system (white blood cells) by up to 25 - 90%, which makes us more vulnerable to illness.

So whenever possible, try substituting natural sugar alternatives such as stevia, agave nectar or date sugar into your diet because these sweeteners aren't processed, therefore contain basic nutrients. They have less of an impact on dramatic blood sugar fluctuations because they are metabolized by our bodies at a slower rate.  

Answer provided by Jackie Yurko, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine.

Do you have a question for our Naturopath? Ask below.

DISCLAIMER: This information is for entertainment purposes only. The recommendations may not work for you, and should not take the place of the recommendations made by your own medical personnel. We are not responsible for the outcomes of any recommendations. Do not make any drastic changes to your diet without the supervision of your doctor/dietitian. For more information, please see a Licensed Naturopath in your area. To find one, visit cand.ca.

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