Quick Fix Diets

On an average, 7 out of every 10 teenagers would love to have a glazed doughnut for breakfast every morning. And for almost all of them, the favorite part of Halloween is the candy it brings. Yet, a recent study showing increased heart disease in frequent sweet eaters, may prove that candy is not so dandy!

The intricate balance between ‘bad’ and ‘good’ cholesterol in the body gets thrown off, as the high sugar intake causes a rise in the level of triglycerides and a dip in the level of HDL or ‘good cholesterol’. As per the survey findings, regular consumption of sweets on a daily basis causes an increased risk of heart disease.

Being humans, we all need statistics and numbers to convince us of any reality. Thus, 6000 men and women participated in a quantitative-analysis of their meals. At 16 percent, added sugar took up a leading position among the contributors to the daily calorie intake.

The survey results also threw up a few astonishing numbers with regard to the specific amounts of sugar consumed in a day. Would you believe it possible that a single man could actually consume almost 46 teaspoonfuls of added sugar on a daily basis? The other extreme included a mere 3 teaspoonfuls of sugar in the day’s meal.

Tips for staying fit and healthy always include a calorie watch. Limiting artificial sugar intake goes a long way in reducing the probability of heart issues. An average male may consume about 9 teaspoonfuls of sugar while a female is allowed 6. This applies to processed food as fruits and vegetables contain completely natural sugar. So remember to read food labels and choose lower-sugar brands.

Sugary soft drinks (or Soda) are easily available everywhere! Even if you wanted to drink something else, you’d be hard-pressed to find it. It’s no wonder then that about 25% of the US population is obese. The above survey should prompt food retailers to reduce the amount of added sugar in food and drinks. Also states must be prompted to levy a tax on soft drink consumption. Sounds drastic, but you’ll be surprised to know such measures are already in place in a few states.

Annual consumption of carbonated drinks is estimated to be about 50 gallons. If just a half-cent sales tax on the sugary brew could result in a 10 gallon drop in sales per year, imagine how much calories we are keeping at bay!

Heart disease is inevitable in a high calorie diet as we all know. But recent studies conducted on the negative effects of added sugar in large quantities, show a rise in blood pressure, and increased occurrence of diabetes and stroke. It would serve us well to cut back on the sugary treats and stay healthy.

Refer to various other articles by this same author covering topics like guest towel and collar stays.

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