Excessive sugar in the diet has been linked to obesity, and higher risk of chronic diseases. In this respect, the World Health Organization has suggested that, on average, the intake of “free sugars” should be less than 10% of the total energy intake. “Free sugars” were defined as all sugars that are added to foods by the manufacturer, cook, or consumer plus those naturally present in honey, syrups, and fruit juices.
Following these international guidelines leads to an average reduction of 0.8 kg (slightly less than 2 pounds) of body weight over time, a recent study conducted at the University of Otago and the Riddet Institute in New Zealand found.
Although the effect is not massive, the findings supports the notion that reducing sugar intake is a key factor in losing weight.
The evidence “points towards a role for sugar and other refined carbohydrates in the development of overweight” the authors added. Sweetened drinks and sugary foods were singled out to be among the main causes of the overweight/obesity epidemic we are currently experiencing worldwide.
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The above story was written/reprinted from materials provided by BMJ - British Medical Journal
The one period in my life I was able to give up white sugar (and that meant in bread, ketchup, etc. as well as out of the sugar bowl) I lost 20 pounds in 4 months. And that was with no other food modifications.
ReplyDeleteOf course, I didn't keep it up...
So yes, cut back on that sugar!