Just Say No to Sugar: Why Cutting Back Could Change Your Life
Sugar has been under scrutiny for years—and with good reason. Its overconsumption has been linked to serious health concerns like obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer. Sugar spikes your triglycerides, lowers your immune response, contributes to tooth decay, and feeds harmful bacteria, yeast, and even some cancers.
According to Dr. Mercola, sugar is more addictive than cocaine. That helps explain why it’s the largest source of calories for Americans.
Liquid Calories: Where Sugar Hides
Many people don’t just eat sugar—they drink it. Sweetened beverages like fancy coffee drinks, iced teas, sodas, and fruit juices pack an alarming amount of sugar. Compare that to water, black coffee, or plain tea, which contain none.
One can of soda = about 140 calories of sugar
A single soda may reduce your immune system’s function by up to 70% for four hours, as taught in chiropractic school
Recommended Daily Sugar Limits
According to the American Heart Association and the Mayo Clinic:
Women: 100 calories per day (about 6 teaspoons)
Men: 150 calories per day (about 9 teaspoons)
Natural vs. Added Sugars: What to Watch For
Fruits and vegetables contain natural sugars, which are generally safe in moderation. But the real problem lies in added sugars, including:
Granulated sugar (from sugar beets or sugarcane)
High-fructose corn syrup
Agave nectar
Molasses
Honey
Note: 95% of sugar beets are genetically modified, while pure cane sugar is not.
Artificial sugar is bad for you. Substitute real sugar in where you can, and cut back where you can.
