Last update:
Here is a list of important things to keep in mind when using sugar.
There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.
Diabetes, a chronic disease, is caused by elevated blood glucose/sugar levels. Glucose, the main source of energy in our body, is regulated by InsulinA hormone secreted by the pancreas. But what causes the overproduction of glucose that can result in diabetes?
Glucose comes from the food we eat. However, when abnormal amounts of glucose are produced in the body, this results in dysfunctional blood glucose/sugar levels, leading to diabetes. A metabolic condition develops when the body’s ability to regulate blood glucose levels is impaired. This happens when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin or the cells become unresponsive to insulin, causing low blood sugar. There are two types of diabetes, including:
- Type 1 diabetes – It is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s insulin-producing cells.
- Type 2 diabetes – It is closely related to lifestyle factors, including diet, amount of exercise or sitting position.
Is sugar consumption related to diabetes?
According to a report published by the American Diabetes Association, type 1 diabetes is not caused by sugar consumption. However, type 2 diabetes is highly dependent on it as it is based on lifestyle issues.
Check out how sugar consumption is linked to diabetes and ways to prevent it.
Sugary drinks cause diabetes.
According to a report on the Diabetes UK website, sugary drinks are high in calories. Thus, it leads to weight gain. Obesity, or the accumulation of fat near the abdomen, is one of the biggest risk factors for type 2 diabetes because it leads to insulin resistance.
Healthy alternatives can play an important role in diabetes management. For example, fruit juices made from fresh, ripe plant products and not commercially available packaged juices can serve as natural sweeteners with fewer calories. Similarly, soda water can be a better alternative to sugary drinks, giving you more control over your sugar intake.
The effect of processed foods
Processed foods have a hidden risk of diabetes. Because of their high calorie content, they quickly raise blood sugar and insulin levels. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), limiting processed foods with hidden added sugars can reduce the risk of obesity and insulin resistance, both of which are risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Play an important role in initiation.
Chocolate bars, sweets, cakes and biscuits should be replaced with healthy snacks such as unsweetened yogurt, unsalted nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables.
The importance of a balanced diet
“Lots of vegetables and other sources of natural fiber, such as fruits , beans, lentils, unsweetened oats, and whole grains are important. Limiting your intake of refined carbohydrates and sugar and creating a food pattern like ‘My Plate’ (the plate method) is a great place to start. Half the vegetables on your plate, one Break in a quarter of lean protein, and a quarter of starches like beans, whole grains, or starchy vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes.”
She adds, “Protein and vegetables won’t spike blood sugar levels and may work to stabilize them because they slow absorption through the digestive process. Similarly, high-fiber carbohydrates “Choosing sugar will help reduce the breakdown of carbohydrates and lower the total amount of sugar in the blood after a meal.”
Keeping these factors in mind can also help prevent diabetes at an early stage.