Let’s admit it – there is just too much hype about giving up sugar completely. Add to that the fact that various celebrities are taking up some or the other no-sugar challenge and ‘inspiring’ their fans to do so too.
With so much going on about cutting off sugar forever, I was getting pretty worried that we, as mature grown-ups, have suddenly become focused on becoming ‘fit’ that we are not really trying to understand what actually is or is not good for us. Is it possible that in the race to get better-looking and fitter bodies, we are following just everything that so-called health gurus are saying?
Here’s why your body needs sugar
1. Energy
Sugar contains fructose as well as glucose, which are your body’s main sources for energy. Your small intestine has an enzyme known as sucrase, which breaks down the fructose and glucose in sugar. It then helps the body to absorb them and send to different parts of the body through the liver. Insulin helps the glucose travel to various cells and converts it into energy.
2. Prevents blood sugar drop
Excess glucose gets stored in your body to use in-between meals, when you don’t have any immediate source of fuel available. This is also important during night, when you take a long break between your dinner and breakfast. Having this extra reserve of energy prevents any sudden and dangerous dips in blood sugar levels.
How much sugar is good each day?
It goes without saying that too much of anything is bad, but it does not mean that you have to completely give up on sugar. If you have read any of my articles earlier, you would know that I lost almost 30 kilos by only focusing on healthy eating and basic exercises. I came down to 52 kgs from 80 kgs.
I did give up on sugar, and even today, I do not take any amount of sugar in my tea, but I do consume it through other means, and sometimes, I have a cheat moment and nibble on a bit of something sweet. This helps me avoid any unnecessary and over the top cravings and keeps my sugar or sweet intake in check.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), a healthy grown male can have a maximum of 9 tsp. of sugar a day, while a healthy grown female can have a maximum of 6 tsp. of sugar a day.
However, it is best to not exceed these levels and instead have about 2 to 3 tsps and not more. To make sure you are healthy, speak to your doctor, get the required tests done and then have the recommended amount of sugar that is good for you.
Natural ways to eat sweet!
Who says you always needed refined sugar to give in to your sweet cravings? Try the following instead and take care of your taste buds as well as health!
- Raisins
- Dates
- Fruits mixed with yogurt, such as strawberries and curd blended together
- Liquid jiggery that can be added to various drinks
- Honey
Also Read: 5 super easy exercise tips for the busy Indian mom
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