Lisa Fortin, MD
Sugar, it's the sweet substance that we all know and love. But did you know that sugar can have some hidden dangers that can harm your health? In this article, we will discuss two hidden dangers of sugar: Advanced Glycation End Products and Accelerated Cell Division.
First, let's talk about Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs). AGEs are formed when glucose in the bloodstream binds to protein, a process known as glycation. This can happen when we consume foods with added sugar, which raises our blood sugar levels. The excess glucose that is not immediately burned or stored as glycogen can cause damage throughout the body by creating AGEs.
AGEs can cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to a host of health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. They can also cause damage to the skin, making it appear dull and aged. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism found that a diet high in AGEs can increase the risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.
The second hidden danger of sugar is accelerated cell division.
When we consume foods with added sugar, our blood sugar levels rise, and our pancreas releases insulin to help regulate blood sugar levels. When our cells are constantly exposed to high insulin levels, they can start to divide at a faster rate. This can lead to an increased risk of cancer, as cells that divide at a faster rate have a higher chance of developing mutations.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that a diet high in sugar can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as breast and colon cancer.
So, what can we do to reduce our risk of these hidden dangers of sugar? The best way to start is by eliminating foods with added sugar from our diet. This includes processed foods, sugary drinks, and even some so-called "health foods" that are high in added sugar. Instead, opt for whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
In conclusion, sugar may be sweet, but it can have some serious hidden dangers. By eliminating foods with added sugar from our diet, we can reduce our risk of Advanced Glycation End Products, accelerated cell division, and other health problems. So, next time you reach for that sugary treat, think twice and opt for something healthier instead.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5696435/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5868752/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3619301/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772032/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4415054/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5696435/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5868752/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3619301/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772032/
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