Is raw sugar good for diabetics. What are the potential risks of popular sugar alternatives. How do artificial sweeteners impact blood sugar levels. Which sweeteners may affect gut health.

The Truth About Raw Cane Sugar: Not So Different from Regular Sugar

Raw cane sugar is often touted as a healthier alternative to regular sugar, but is this really the case? Derived from sugarcane plants native to tropical regions, raw cane sugar accounts for a significant portion of sugar production in the United States. Its sweet, slightly fruity taste makes it a popular choice for sweetening various foods and beverages.

However, the chemical composition of raw cane sugar is virtually identical to that of regular sugar. Both consist of sucrose, a molecule formed by units of simple sugars like glucose and fructose. This means that in terms of nutritional impact, raw cane sugar is not significantly different from its refined counterpart.

Can excessive consumption of raw cane sugar lead to health problems? Unfortunately, yes. Like regular sugar, consuming high amounts of raw cane sugar can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of developing chronic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. For individuals managing diabetes or trying to maintain a healthy weight, raw cane sugar should be consumed in moderation, just like any other form of sugar.

Artificial Sweeteners: A Closer Look at Saccharin and Its Effects

Saccharin, a popular artificial sweetener, is often used as a calorie-free alternative to sugar in various products. As a non-nutritive sweetener, it doesn’t contribute calories or carbohydrates to your diet. While some studies suggest that using calorie-free sweeteners like saccharin can help reduce calorie intake and support weight loss, there are potential drawbacks to consider.

How does saccharin affect gut health? Several animal studies have shown that consuming saccharin can lead to alterations in the gut microbiome, potentially reducing beneficial gut bacteria. This is concerning because gut bacteria play a crucial role in various aspects of health, including immune function and digestive health.

Are there any long-term health risks associated with saccharin consumption? While more research is needed, disruptions in gut bacteria have been linked to health issues such as obesity, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and colorectal cancer. It’s important to note that most studies have been conducted on animals, and more research is needed to fully understand the effects of saccharin on human health.

Aspartame: The Controversy Surrounding This Common Artificial Sweetener

Aspartame is another widely used artificial sweetener found in many diet products, including sugar-free sodas, ice creams, yogurts, and candies. Like other artificial sweeteners, it’s free of carbs and calories, making it attractive to those looking to lose weight or manage their sugar intake.

Does aspartame actually help with weight loss? Surprisingly, some studies suggest it may not be as effective as once thought. A review of 12 studies found that using aspartame instead of sugar did not significantly reduce calorie intake or body weight. This raises questions about its effectiveness as a weight loss aid.

Are there any potential health risks associated with aspartame consumption? Some research has indicated that compared to sugar, aspartame may be linked to lower levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease. Additionally, some people report experiencing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and depression after consuming aspartame, although further research is needed to confirm these potential side effects.

Sucralose: The Hidden Dangers of This Zero-Calorie Sweetener

Sucralose, commonly known by the brand name Splenda, is a popular zero-calorie artificial sweetener often used as a sugar substitute in hot beverages and baked goods. While many studies suggest that sucralose doesn’t significantly affect blood sugar levels or alter hormones involved in blood sugar control, some research has raised concerns about its potential health impacts.

How does sucralose affect blood sugar levels in certain individuals? One study found that consuming sucralose increased blood sugar and insulin levels in 17 obese people who didn’t typically use non-nutritive sweeteners. This suggests that the effects of sucralose on blood sugar may vary depending on individual factors and regular consumption patterns.

What are the potential negative effects of sucralose on gut health? Several animal studies have indicated that sucralose may be linked to reductions in beneficial gut bacteria, a higher risk of inflammation, and increased weight gain. These findings highlight the need for further research on the long-term effects of sucralose consumption on human health.

Is baking with sucralose safe? Interestingly, baking with sucralose may pose additional risks due to the formation of chloropropanols, chemical compounds thought to be toxic. This suggests that using sucralose as a sugar substitute in baked goods may not be as safe as previously assumed.

Acesulfame K: Unraveling the Potential Risks of This Lesser-Known Sweetener

Acesulfame K, also known as acesulfame potassium, is an artificial sweetener that’s often used in combination with other sweeteners to enhance flavor and reduce aftertaste. It’s commonly found in soft drinks, protein shakes, and baked goods. Like other artificial sweeteners, it’s calorie-free and doesn’t affect blood sugar levels.

How does Acesulfame K impact metabolism? Some studies suggest that Acesulfame K may have negative effects on metabolism. Research in mice has shown that this sweetener can increase insulin secretion and affect glucose tolerance, potentially leading to metabolic changes associated with obesity and diabetes.

Are there concerns about the long-term safety of Acesulfame K? While it has been approved for use by regulatory agencies, some researchers have raised concerns about the adequacy of the safety studies conducted on Acesulfame K. Some animal studies have suggested potential carcinogenic effects, although these findings haven’t been conclusively demonstrated in humans.

Agave Nectar: The Truth Behind This “Natural” Sweetener

Agave nectar, derived from the agave plant, is often marketed as a natural and healthier alternative to sugar. Its low glycemic index has made it popular among those looking to manage blood sugar levels. However, the reality of agave nectar’s health impact is more complex than it might seem at first glance.

Is agave nectar truly healthier than regular sugar? Despite its natural origins, agave nectar is highly processed and contains even more fructose than high fructose corn syrup. High fructose consumption has been linked to various health issues, including insulin resistance, fatty liver disease, and increased triglyceride levels.

How does agave nectar affect blood sugar levels compared to other sweeteners? While agave nectar has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar, meaning it doesn’t cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, its high fructose content can lead to other metabolic problems over time. This makes it a potentially problematic choice for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

Coconut Sugar: Examining the Health Claims of This Trendy Sweetener

Coconut sugar has gained popularity in recent years as a supposedly healthier alternative to regular sugar. Made from the sap of coconut palm trees, it’s often touted for its lower glycemic index and higher nutrient content compared to white sugar.

Does coconut sugar offer significant nutritional benefits over regular sugar? While coconut sugar does contain small amounts of nutrients like iron, zinc, and potassium, the quantities are too small to have a meaningful impact on your health. It’s still primarily composed of sucrose, just like regular sugar.

How does coconut sugar affect blood sugar levels? Although coconut sugar has a slightly lower glycemic index than regular sugar, the difference is not substantial enough to make it a significantly better choice for blood sugar management. It should still be consumed in moderation, especially by individuals with diabetes or those watching their sugar intake.

Honey: The Sweet Truth About This Natural Sweetener

Honey has been used as a natural sweetener for thousands of years and is often perceived as a healthier alternative to refined sugar. While it does offer some unique properties and potential health benefits, it’s important to understand its impact on blood sugar and overall health.

What are the potential health benefits of honey? Honey contains antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties, which may offer some health advantages. Some studies suggest that certain types of honey, such as Manuka honey, may have additional therapeutic benefits.

How does honey affect blood sugar levels? Despite its natural origins, honey still has a significant impact on blood sugar levels. In fact, it can raise blood sugar levels just as quickly as regular sugar. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar, honey should be consumed cautiously and in moderation.

Is raw honey nutritionally superior to processed honey? Raw honey may contain more beneficial compounds, as the processing of honey can remove some of its natural enzymes and antioxidants. However, even raw honey is still primarily composed of sugars and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The Importance of Moderation in Sweetener Consumption

Regardless of the type of sweetener used, whether it’s raw cane sugar, artificial sweeteners, or natural alternatives like honey or agave nectar, moderation is key. While some sweeteners may offer certain advantages over others, excessive consumption of any added sugars or sweeteners can contribute to health problems.

How can individuals make informed choices about sweeteners? It’s important to read nutrition labels, be aware of hidden sources of added sugars in processed foods, and consider the overall context of one’s diet and health status. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance on sweetener choices and consumption.

The Role of Whole Foods in a Balanced Diet

Rather than focusing solely on finding the “perfect” sweetener, it’s beneficial to emphasize whole, unprocessed foods in your diet. Fruits, for example, provide natural sweetness along with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Incorporating a variety of whole foods can help satisfy sweet cravings while providing essential nutrients.

How can individuals reduce their reliance on added sweeteners? Gradually reducing the amount of sweetener used in beverages and foods can help retrain your taste buds to appreciate less intense sweetness. Experimenting with natural flavor enhancers like cinnamon, vanilla, or fruit can also help reduce the need for added sweeteners.

The Future of Sweeteners: Emerging Research and Alternatives

As concerns about sugar consumption and its health impacts continue to grow, researchers are exploring new alternatives and investigating the long-term effects of existing sweeteners. Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Development of novel low-calorie sweeteners from natural sources
• Further investigation into the impact of artificial sweeteners on gut health and metabolism
• Exploration of sweetener blends that mimic the taste and functional properties of sugar while reducing calorie content
• Studies on the potential use of sweet proteins as alternative sweeteners

As new findings emerge, it’s important for consumers to stay informed and critically evaluate health claims associated with various sweeteners. Remember that what’s considered “healthy” can change as our understanding of nutrition and health evolves.

In conclusion, while many sugars and sweeteners are marketed as healthy alternatives to regular sugar, it’s crucial to approach these claims with a critical eye. Each sweetener, whether natural or artificial, comes with its own set of potential benefits and risks. For individuals managing diabetes or concerned about their sugar intake, it’s essential to consider the impact of all sweeteners on blood sugar levels and overall health. Moderation, along with a focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods, remains key to maintaining a balanced and healthy diet.

8 ‘Healthy’ Sugars and Sweeteners That May Be Harmful

Many sugars and sweeteners are marketed as healthy alternatives to regular sugar.

Those looking to cut calories and reduce sugar intake often turn to these products when searching for an easy substitute to sweeten baked goods and beverages.

However, in some cases, these replacements may do more harm than good when it comes to your health.

Here are 8 “healthy” sugars and sweeteners that may be harmful.

1. Raw cane sugar

Raw cane sugar is obtained from sugarcane, which is a plant native to tropical regions of the world, such as Southeast Asia. It accounts for about 40–45% of total sugar produced in the United States (1).

It’s used to sweeten everything from desserts to hot drinks and is often preferred over other types of sugar due to its versatility, widespread availability, and sweet, slightly fruity taste (2).

However, though raw cane sugar is often marketed as a healthy alternative to regular sugar, there’s no real difference between them.

In fact, both are identical in terms of chemical composition and made up of sucrose, a molecule formed by units of simple sugars, such as glucose and fructose (3).

As with regular sugar, consuming high amounts of raw cane sugar can contribute to weight gain and may promote the development of chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes (4).

Summary Just like regular sugar, raw cane sugar is
made up of sucrose and can contribute to weight gain and disease development if
consumed in excess.

2. Saccharin

Saccharin is an artificial sweetener that’s often used as a sugar replacement in soft drinks and low-calorie candies, gums, and desserts.

Because your body can’t digest it, it’s considered a non-nutritive sweetener, which means it doesn’t contribute calories or carbs to your diet (5).

Some research indicates that using calorie-free sweeteners like saccharin in place of regular sugar can reduce calorie intake to support weight loss (6).

Nonetheless, saccharin may harm your health as well.

Several animal studies have found that consuming saccharin can lead to alterations in the gut microbiome and may reduce good gut bacteria, which play a central role in everything from immune function to digestive health (7, 8, 9).

Disruptions in the beneficial bacteria in your gut may also be linked to health issues, including obesity, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and colorectal cancer (10).

Still, more research is needed to evaluate how saccharin may affect overall health in humans.

Summary Saccharin is a non-nutritive sweetener that
may aid weight loss by reducing calorie intake. However, it may also alter your
gut microbiome, which is involved in many aspects of health and disease.

3. Aspartame

Aspartame is a popular artificial sweetener that’s often found in diet products, such as sugar-free sodas, ice creams, yogurts, and candies.

Like other artificial sweeteners, it’s free of carbs and calories, making it a popular choice among those looking to ramp up weight loss.

That said, some studies suggest that aspartame may be detrimental to your waistline and health.

For example, one review of 12 studies found that using aspartame instead of sugar did not reduce calorie intake or body weight (11).

What’s more, compared to sugar, aspartame was linked to lower levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease (11).

Some people also claim that it may cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and depression, though further research is needed on these potential side effects.

Summary Aspartame is a calorie-free artificial
sweetener that’s often added to diet products. One review found that it may not
help reduce calorie intake or body weight, compared to regular sugar.

4. Sucralose

Sucralose is most commonly found in the zero-calorie artificial sweetener Splenda, which is often used in place of sugar to sweeten hot drinks like coffee or tea.

Many studies show that it doesn’t affect blood sugar levels or alter the hormones involved in blood sugar control to the same degree as sugar (12, 13, 14).

However, one study noted that consuming sucralose increased blood sugar and insulin levels in 17 obese people who usually didn’t use non-nutritive sweeteners (15).

What’s more, some research indicates that this sweetener may have other harmful side effects.

For instance, several animal studies have found that sucralose may be linked to reductions in good gut bacteria, a higher risk of inflammation, and increased weight gain (16, 17, 18).

Baking with sucralose can also be dangerous due to the formation of chloropropanols, which are chemical compounds thought to be toxic (19, 20).

Summary Sucralose is commonly found in Splenda.
Research shows that this sweetener may decrease beneficial gut bacteria,
increase inflammation, and lead to weight gain.

5. Acesulfame K

Acesulfame K, also known as acesulfame potassium or Ace-K, is often combined with other sweeteners due to its slightly bitter taste.

Ace-K is usually found in frozen desserts, baked goods, candies, and low-calorie sweets. It’s one of the few heat-stable artificial sweeteners (21).

Though it’s considered safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Ace-K remains one of the most controversial artificial sweeteners.

In fact, some researchers have called for further evaluation of its potential cancer-causing effects, citing the inadequate and flawed testing methods originally used to determine its safety (22).

Though one 40-week study found that Ace-K had no cancer-causing effects in mice, no other recent research has evaluated whether it may affect cancer growth (23).

Additionally, some studies indicate that long-term exposure may harm other aspects of your health.

For example, one 40-week mouse study noted that regular use of Ace-K impaired mental function and memory (24).

Another 4-week mouse study showed that Ace-K increased weight gain in male animals and negatively altered gut bacteria in both sexes (25).

Still, additional high-quality human studies are needed to analyze the safety and potential side effects of Ace-K.

Summary Ace-K is an artificial sweetener that is
combined with other sweeteners in many foods. Research on its safety has been
called into question, and animal studies show that it may have several adverse
effects.

6. Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that’s extracted from birch trees and added to many chewing gums, mints, and toothpastes.

Compared to regular sugar, it has a significantly lower glycemic index (GI), meaning it won’t raise your blood sugar or insulin levels to the same extent as sugar (5).

Additionally, research shows that xylitol may be especially effective at preventing dental cavities in children with minimal risk of adverse effects (26).

It has also been associated with other health benefits in animal and test-tube studies, including reduced bacterial growth and increased bone volume and collagen production (27, 28, 29).

However, xylitol can have a laxative effect in high doses and may cause digestive disturbances, including loose stools and gas (30).

It may also trigger symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine and causes symptoms like stomach pain, gas, diarrhea, and constipation (31).

For this reason, it’s generally recommended to start with a small dose and slowly work your way up to assess your tolerance to xylitol or other sugar alcohols.

Also, keep in mind that xylitol is highly toxic to dogs and can cause low blood sugar, liver failure, and even death (32, 33).

Summary Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that has been
linked to a number of health benefits. Still, in high amounts, it may cause
digestive issues for some, including those with IBS. Plus, it’s highly toxic to dogs.

7. Agave nectar

Agave nectar, or agave syrup, is a popular sweetener derived from several different species of the agave plant.

It’s often hailed as a healthy alternative to regular sugar, as it has a low GI, which is a measure of how much a food increases your blood sugar levels (34, 35).

Agave nectar is composed primarily of fructose, a type of simple sugar that doesn’t significantly affect blood sugar or insulin levels (36).

Therefore, it’s often used in sweets and snacks marketed as being suitable for people with diabetes.

However, studies show that regular fructose intake is associated with a higher risk of fatty liver disease and insulin resistance, which can impair blood sugar control in the long run (37, 38).

Fructose intake may also increase LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are major risk factors for heart disease (39).

Summary Agave nectar has a low GI and doesn’t affect
blood sugar levels in the short term. However, it may increase your risk of
fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, and increased
triglyceride levels in the long term.

8. Sorbitol

Sorbitol is a naturally-occurring sugar alcohol found in many fruits and plants.

Unlike other sweeteners, it has only about 60% of the sweetening power of regular sugar and contains one-third fewer calories (40).

Sorbitol is known for its smooth mouthfeel, sweet flavor, and mild aftertaste, making it an excellent addition to sugar-free drinks and desserts.

While it’s generally considered safe, it acts as a laxative by stimulating the movement of your digestive tract (40).

Consuming high amounts of sorbitol can cause digestive issues like bloating, gas, stomach pain, cramps, and diarrhea, especially for people with IBS (41, 42, 43).

Therefore, it’s best to moderate your intake and be especially mindful if you notice adverse effects.

Summary Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that contains
fewer calories than sugar and is often added to sugar-free foods and drinks. In
some cases, it may cause digestive issues due to its laxative effects.

All types of added sugar should be limited

Even healthier varieties of sugars and sweeteners can be harmful when consumed in excess.

For example, raw honey is often considered a good alternative to regular sugar, due to its ability to promote wound healing, lower triglyceride levels, and reduce both total and LDL (bad) cholesterol (44, 45).

Nonetheless, it’s high in calories, loaded with sugar, and could contribute to weight gain over time.

It’s important to note that consuming too much of any type of sugar — even natural sweeteners like honey and maple syrup — could harm your health.

Studies show that excess sugar intake may be associated with a higher risk of heart disease, depression, weight gain, and impaired blood sugar control (46, 47, 48).

Meanwhile, artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols are commonly found in foods that have been highly processed and pumped with additives and preservatives, most of which should be limited on a healthy diet as well.

Therefore, it’s best to limit your intake of all types of added sugar, including natural sugars and sweeteners like coconut sugar, honey, and maple syrup.

Instead, enjoy your favorite sweets from time to time alongside a variety of fruits, veggies, proteins, and healthy fats as part of a nutritious, well-rounded diet.

Summary Even healthier sugars and sweeteners can be
harmful in high amounts. Ideally, all types of sugars and sweeteners should be
limited on a healthy diet.

The bottom line

Many sugars and sweeteners that are advertised as healthy may come with a long list of side effects.

Though several are lower in calories and carbs than regular sugar, some have been linked to digestive issues, impaired blood sugar control, and alterations in beneficial gut bacteria.

Therefore, it’s best to moderate your intake of all sugars and sweeteners and enjoy your favorite treats from time to time as part of a healthy diet.

Is It Better Than White?

Misconceptions about brown and white sugar are prevalent.

Although they’re produced from the same sources, brown sugar is often touted as a natural, healthy alternative to white sugar.

Understanding their differences and health effects is especially important if you have diabetes.

This article explains whether brown sugar is better than white sugar if you have diabetes.

Because brown and white sugar are produced from either the sugar beet or sugarcane plant, they’re nearly identical nutritionally.

Brown sugar is usually made by adding molasses to refined white sugar, which gives it a darker color and supplies a small amount of vitamins and minerals.

Gram for gram, brown sugar is slightly lower in calories and carbs than white sugar.

Brown sugar also contains more calcium, iron, and potassium, although the amounts of these nutrients found in a typical serving are insignificant (1, 2).

As such, these differences are very minor and unlikely to affect your health.

Summary

Compared with brown sugar, white sugar is slightly higher in carbs and calories and slightly lower in nutrients. However, the nutritional differences are negligible.

Brown and white sugar are composed primarily of sucrose, or table sugar (3).

On the glycemic index (GI), which measures to what extent certain foods increase blood sugar levels on a 0–100 scale, sucrose scores 65 (4).

This means that both brown and white sugar increase blood sugar levels as much as foods like french fries, sweet potatoes, and popcorn.

Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is incredibly important for people with diabetes. Moderating your intake of carb- and sugar-rich foods can support blood sugar control and minimize your long-term risk of diabetes complications (5).

summary

Brown and white sugar are both composed of sucrose, which may spike blood sugar levels.

If you have diabetes, brown sugar is no healthier than white sugar.

Keep in mind that any kind of added sugar should be limited as part of a healthy, well-rounded diet. Excess sugar intake is linked to a higher risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and fatty liver disease (6).

Some research suggests that excess sugar also impairs insulin sensitivity, which refers to how responsive your body is to insulin. This hormone regulates your blood sugar levels.

Damaged insulin sensitivity reduces your ability to transport sugar from your bloodstream to your cells efficiently (7, 8).

Thus, people with diabetes should be especially careful with sugar intake (9).

The American Heart Association suggests limiting added sugars to under 6 teaspoons (25 grams, or 100 calories) per day for women and under 9 teaspoons (37.5 grams, or 150 calories) per day for men (10).

If you have diabetes, curbing your sugar intake as much as possible can improve your blood sugar control while promoting overall health. To develop an appropriate diet plan, consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian.

summary

Both brown and white sugar are considered added sugars, which are associated with decreased insulin sensitivity and a higher risk of several chronic conditions.

Despite slight differences in taste, brown and white sugar have a very similar nutrient profile and effect on blood sugar levels.

Therefore, brown sugar does not provide any benefits to people with diabetes.

Everyone — but especially people with this condition — should moderate their sugar intake for optimal health.

Cane sugar: health benefits and harms, differences from regular sugar – Agro-Alliance

Brown sugar – benefits and harms to the body

Traditionally, refined white sugar, obtained from sugar beets, is used in cooking. But for the body of any person, the use of brown sugar from cane is more beneficial due to the content of additional valuable ingredients in it.

What is brown cane sugar

What are the benefits and harms of cane sugar for the body.

60% of all sugar produced in the world is produced from cane stalks that grow in India, Central and South America. It belongs to perennial herbs.

Unrefined cane sugar has a brown color. In such a semi-finished product there is one of the extraction fractions – molasses or molasses. It not only colors the crystals in a characteristic golden brown color, but also gives it an original caramel taste.

The flavor of molasses persists in baked goods and confectionery. For this quality, unrefined sugar has long been of professional interest to culinary specialists. Adding it to a cup of coffee gives an exquisite touch to the usual drink.

But the main advantage of the product lies in the increased content of mineral ingredients.

Benefits of brown sugar

We are accustomed to consider ordinary beet sugar as a source of glucose, sweet taste and nothing more. But its dark counterpart due to the presence of molasses contains in its composition:

• fiber and vegetable fibers;
• vitamins B ₄ , B ₅ and B ₆ ;
• chemical elements – first of all, it is calcium, as well as selenium, copper, sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, phosphorus.

The benefits of cane sugar, unlike regular sugar, are obvious:

1. When pure refined sugar is consumed, calcium in the body is consumed for its absorption. Brown sugar itself compensates for the resulting deficiency of calcium salts, preventing the weakening of bone and dental tissues.
2. Potassium and magnesium support the normal functioning of the heart.
3. Sodium occupies an important place in water-salt metabolism.
4. The hematopoietic system needs iron.
5. Zinc protects the nervous tissue from damage, strengthens the immune system, improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails, is necessary for the eyes and the female reproductive system (helps normalize the menstrual cycle).
6. Fiber normalizes the functioning of the intestines.
7. Glucose stimulates brain activity and improves memory.
8. Vitamins B together with iron slow down the aging process.

Cane sugar acts as a regulator of many pathological conditions. Thus, it turns out that the rejection of white sugar in favor of brown will turn traditional tea drinking into saturation of the body with minerals and trace elements.

Contraindications

After getting acquainted with the chemical composition of molasses, it is tempting to use brown sugar in large quantities in order to prevent diseases. But the benefits and harms of unrefined cane sugar coexist peacefully in every grain, just like in ordinary white sugar.

The content of glucose in different types of sugar is practically the same. High calorie content with excessive passion for sweets leads to:

• obesity;
• fatty degeneration of the liver tissue;
• increase the level of cholesterol in the body;
• cardiovascular pathology;
• development of diabetes mellitus;
• increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease;
• the occurrence of caries.

The optimal daily intake of any type of sugar is about six teaspoons, taking into account the glucose that is part of various foods. Taking into account the benefits of individual components of unrefined sugar, it is better to give preference to this product.

Cane sugar and its glycemic index

Cane sugar is a traditional product for many peoples of the world. It is gaining popularity among housewives from Russia. Supporters of a healthy lifestyle and an impeccable figure appreciate it for its unusual components and properties.

Sources and calories

The product is made from cane stalks. It is grown in Central Asia and South American countries. It owes its brownish hue to “cane honey” – molasses.

Black molasses (molasses) – a by-product when obtaining a sweet product – gives it a dark color and caramel flavor, contains:

• trace elements – calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus and zinc;
• vitamins B4, B5 and B6;
• vegetable fiber and fibers.

Cane sugar contains 398 kcal per 100 grams of product. There are no proteins and fats here, carbohydrates – 99. 4 g per 100 grams.

Glycemic index

For the initial value for comparison, the glucose index was taken – 100 units. In cane sugar, it is 55 – lower than that of ordinary beet sugar.

A low index means that carbohydrates are absorbed by the body for a long time, enter the blood gradually and go to replenish energy costs and plastic needs.

Conclusion

The need for sweets is due to the need to replenish glucose reserves in the body. With its participation, dopamine is produced in the brain – a substance that excites the center of pleasure and joy. This mediator smooths out the negative effects of stress on the body, increases efficiency, and normalizes sleep. However, in order to get pleasant sensations, more and more sweets are required over time. Imperceptibly, an addiction is formed that is difficult to overcome. Therefore, moderation is important in everything.

It must be borne in mind that only one glass of soda contains the daily norm of sugar, but we never limit ourselves to it, often overloading the body with excess glucose.

The ratio of benefits and harms of unrefined cane sugar directly depends on the portion of the sweet dish. If a person accustoms himself to the minimum consumption of sweets, then he may not worry about the negative consequences. In the diet of people prone to obesity, the amount of pure sugar of any origin should not exceed 15% of the daily amount of carbohydrates.

Comparing the harm and benefits of brown cane sugar with its beetroot counterpart, nutritionists advise giving preference to the first, because. it contains more useful components. In some Western countries, cane molasses is sold as a stand-alone product designed to provide the body with iron and vitamins.

Knowing the benefits of cane sugar, you need to gradually accustom yourself to using it instead of the usual white. True, the cost of an overseas product is somewhat higher than the price of the same package of beet sugar. But this is natural, because its nutritional value for the body is immeasurably higher.

Skurikhin I.M., Tutelyan V.A. Tables of the chemical composition and calorie content of Russian food products: a Handbook. -M.: DeLi print, 2007.

An unexpected benefit of fats in diabetes was discovered

https://ria.ru/20220112/zhiry-1767353022.html 01/12/2022

Unexpected Benefits of Fats in Diabetes Discovered0003

Swiss scientists have found that, under certain conditions, fats help pancreatic beta cells maintain normal blood sugar levels, so RIA Novosti, 01/12/2022

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https://cdnn21.img.ria.ru/images/07e5/08/18/1747014412_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_7369105c482a2efb88c8f85a4c6e25cf.jpg 0002 MOSCOW, January 12 – RIA Novosti. Swiss scientists have found that, under certain conditions, fats help pancreatic beta cells maintain normal blood sugar levels, thereby slowing down the development of type 2 diabetes. The results of the study were published in the journal Diabetologia. According to statistics, every tenth person in the world suffers from type 2 diabetes. The main factors of this serious disease – a sedentary lifestyle and high-calorie foods – impair the functioning of pancreatic cells and reduce the effectiveness of blood sugar regulation. Type 2 diabetes occurs as a result of dysfunction of pancreatic beta cells, which are responsible for insulin secretion. This disrupts blood sugar regulation and can lead to serious heart, eye, and kidney complications. B 19In the 1970s, the concept of lipotoxicity appeared, stating that the effect of fat on beta cells causes their destruction. Therefore, nutritionists often recommend that patients with type 2 diabetes minimize fatty foods. However, the results of a recent study by scientists from the University of Geneva showed that insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells suffer less from excess sugar if they were previously exposed to fat. “To answer this key question (about the dangers of fat – ed. ), we studied how human and mouse beta cells adapt to excess sugar and fat, ”the words of the head of the study, Professor of Cell Physiology and Metabolism Pierre Maechler, are quoted in a university press release. To distinguish the action of fat from the action of sugar, scientists exposed beta cells to excess sugar, fat, and then a combination of the two. Sugar toxicity has been confirmed for the first time. The authors demonstrated that beta cells exposed to high levels of sugar do produce much less insulin than usual. Conversely, fats allowed beta cells to adapt to excess sugar. “When cells are exposed to both too much sugar and too much fat, they store fat in droplets in anticipation of less prosperous times,” explains first author Lucy. Oberhauser (Lucie Oberhauser), researcher in the Department of Cellular Physiology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine.-Surprisingly, we have shown that this store of fat does not worsen the situation, but allows you to restore insulin secretion to almost normal levels. fat in cells are not static reservoirs, but places for the implementation of a dynamic cycle of accumulation and mobilization of fats. Fat molecules released at certain stages of this cycle help beta cells adapt to excess sugar, which allows the latter to carry out almost normal secretion of insulin. To avoid the development of diabetes, it is important to maintain this cycle, for example, through regular physical activity, the scientists note.

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Science, Nutrition, Diet, Switzerland, Health, Diabetes, biology

MOSCOW, January 12 – RIA Novosti. Swiss scientists have found that, under certain conditions, fats help pancreatic beta cells maintain normal blood sugar levels, thereby slowing down the development of type 2 diabetes. The results of the study are published in the journal Diabetologia.

According to statistics, every tenth person in the world suffers from type 2 diabetes. The main factors of this serious disease – a sedentary lifestyle and high-calorie foods – impair the functioning of pancreatic cells and reduce the effectiveness of blood sugar regulation.

Type 2 diabetes results from dysfunction of the pancreatic beta cells, which are responsible for insulin secretion. This disrupts blood sugar regulation and can lead to serious heart, eye, and kidney complications.

In the 1970s, the concept of lipotoxicity emerged, stating that the action of fat on beta cells causes their destruction. Therefore, nutritionists often recommend that patients with type 2 diabetes minimize fatty foods. However, the results of a recent study by scientists from the University of Geneva showed that insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells are less affected by excess sugar if they were previously exposed to fat.

Scientists have named a product that protects against many diseases sugar and fat,” the words of the head of the study, Professor of the Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Pierre Maechler, are quoted in a university press release.

To distinguish the action of fat from the action of sugar, the scientists exposed beta cells to excess sugar, fat, and then a combination of the two. Sugar toxicity has been confirmed for the first time. The authors demonstrated that beta cells exposed to high levels of sugar do produce much less insulin than usual. And fats, on the contrary, allowed beta cells to adapt to excess sugar.

“When cells are exposed to both too much sugar and too much fat, they store fat in droplets in anticipation of less prosperous times,” explains first author Lucie Oberhauser, postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Cellular Physiology and School of Medicine Metabolism “Surprisingly, we have shown that this fat storage does not worsen the situation, but allows insulin secretion to be restored to almost normal levels”

In a more in-depth analysis, scientists found that fat droplets in cells are not static reservoirs, but places where a dynamic cycle of fat accumulation and mobilization occurs.