Sugar can suppress the immune system and cause fatigue, hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, and irritability in adults and children. It can increase inflammation, fluid retention, pain, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and premature aging.
It’s best to avoid high amounts of sugar, especially high-fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners such as Aspartame, Splenda, and sucralose. These types of sweeteners can create digestive complications, nervous system problems, headaches, and mood disorders, including depression and anxiety. Sugar can increase the risk of heart disease, cause higher LDL cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, diabetes, memory loss, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and all cancers.
Hormone imbalance in men and women may be caused by excess sugar and refined carbohydrates, because they increase estradiol, especially in the thyroid and adrenal glands. Sugar also lowers libido and may increase PMS symptoms.
The more sugar that is eaten, the more elasticity and function of the body is lost. because it robs the body of vitamins and minerals. Mineral deficiencies make bones and tendons brittle and may lead to restless legs, heart problems, arthritis, and osteoporosis. They contribute to uncontrolled obesity and yeast infection (Candida).
Excessive sugar can worsen allergic and asthma conditions and ADD and ADHD. Indigestion and acid reflux may be caused by too much sugar. Consuming high amounts of sugar can increase IBS and constipation, because sugar lacks enzymes which break down food to help digestion. Sugar increases the concentration of bile acids in stool and bacteria in the colon and produce cancer-causing compounds.
Natural alternatives to incorporate sweetness in your diet are honey, maple syrup, molasses, monk fruit and stevia. An excellent way to sweeten foods is with natural fruits.
Excerpt from “Breast Health Is in Your Hands” – Nutrition and Digestion chapter
Joyce is a published author of “Breast health Is in Your Hands, Tips for Breast Vitality and Sensuality” and founder of an international business, HealthyGirlsBreastOil, a unique effective essential oil blend for breast health. She offers consultations for natural breast health. www.aromatherapynatureway.com
