Since my mom asked about it, I'm posting a link to a website that explains sugar pretty well (although kind-of a funny website). Not all sugar is created equal. :)
Here's the link: http://www.nerdfitness.com/blog/2013/06/17/everything-you-need-to-know-about-sugar/
He also explains other things you might be curious about, such as gluten. Sorry for the title of his post, but he does explain it well. http://www.nerdfitness.com/blog/2013/10/28/what-the-hell-is-gluten/. I'm glad that he points out that gluten-free does not mean more healthy. Foods labeled gluten-free often are still just as bad for you, so you have to still look at the ingredients (particularly the sugar, salt, and fat).
(Lisa) I also read the book "Salt, Sugar, Fat" by Michael Moss. Interesting read. Good reminder that the food industry does not have our best health in mind. They are of course out to sell the most products. The food giants are competing with each other for sales, and they know how to reel us in. These companies research and determine the "bliss point" for foods, the point at which it's just right for the taste and for your wanting more and more. The government requires labeling of the ingredients, but these food companies have gotten really creative in how they do that. Do you really know what all those things are? The things that end in -ose are usually the sugars, but also corn syrup.
Best thing to do is stick with more fruits and veggies, meat, eggs, nuts, or in general whatever doesn't have things added to it. And yes, you have to find what works for you, but if you are trying to lose a lot of weight, you might not even be able to "cheat" here and there on sweets. If you're lucky enough to have a really good metabolism, you can probably eat dessert every day. (Sorry, this all sounds like it's directed towards Lisa. It's not.). :)
My goal isn't weight loss either. Just trying to have more energy and get my body in top working order.
If you really want to get serious, you could research the glycemic index of fruits and veggies too. Some things are better than others. Potatoes or carrots might not be as good a choice as sweet potatoes or green beans, etc. I think for me sweet potatoes are much better than regular potatoes, in my body's ability to process them. (But that's another diet theory from the Blood Type Diet...)
I am interested to hear what works or doesn't for you. We can all help each other!
1 comment:
Great post, Annie. The thing that irritated me the most in Michael Moss's book is how companies call their most loyal customers "heavy users," like drug addicts. It's offensive but it's also true in a lot of ways because sugar and salt and fat are as addictive as drugs. I just read about a study in the news where sugar was compared with cocaine.
Sugar is definitely the hardest for me to avoid, and I can't do it completely. Do you plan on avoiding all treats and sweets over the next two months?
I've never seen Nerd Fitness until I checked out those articles you linked.
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