Sugar
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Fruit Juice and Sugar: Healthier Alternatives
Fruit juice, derived from the squeezing or pressing of fresh fruits, is often perceived as a natural and wholesome beverage. However, this seemingly healthy drink can also contain astonishingly high levels of sugar. For instance, a typical glass of orange juice can contain as much sugar as several whole oranges. The main issue here lies in the concentration of sugar. While whole fruits contain fiber, which slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, fruit juice will sometimes lack this important dietary fibre. As a result, the sugar in juice is absorbed much more quickly, leading to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. Moreover, the juicing process densifies the…
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Ultraprocessed Foods
In recent years, the topic of ultraprocessed foods has garnered significant attention. These foods, pervasive in our daily diets, have been increasingly linked to a myriad of health issues, ranging from obesity to early mortality. This article aims to shed light on the hidden dangers of ultraprocessed foods and their impact on health, as defined by current research and guidelines. Understanding Ultraprocessed Foods Ultraprocessed foods are products that are significantly altered from their original form, often with the addition of various chemicals and additives. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations categorizes these foods as containing ingredients “never or rarely used in kitchens,” along with classes of additives…
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The Health Effects of Fall’s Favourite Brew
As the days get shorter and the temperatures begin to dip, Canadians across the country anticipate the return of their favourite fall flavours – and nothing heralds the start of sweater weather more than the iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL). This year, many of Canada’s cherished coffee chains are warming hearts and hands a bit earlier, introducing their PSLs and other fall menu favourites ahead of schedule. The PSL, a warm beverage laced with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, has taken the world by storm, with Canada being no exception. Its creamy blend, topped with whipped cream and a dusting of spice, offers a sensory delight that tantalizingly bridges the…
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Navigating Nutritional Pitfalls
The relationship between food and human life is a fascinating, complex and vital one. However, in today’s fast-paced world, dietary habits have taken a dramatic turn for the worse. Overeating and unhealthy eating have emerged as major concerns for public health, associated with an array of chronic diseases and health conditions. Understanding Overeating and Unhealthy Eating Overeating, as the term suggests, refers to the consumption of food in quantities exceeding what the body requires to function healthily. In essence, it is the imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure, resulting in an excess, often stored as fat, which could lead to weight gain and obesity. Unhealthy eating, on the other…
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How Sugar Impairs the Immune System
Sugar, despite its sweet and irresistible allure, harbors potential threats to our health. While it’s well known that excessive sugar consumption contributes to obesity and diabetes, an aspect of high sugar intake often overlooked is its detrimental impact on the immune system. This article will delve into how high sugar consumption impairs our immune system, making us more susceptible to diseases. Understanding The Immune System The immune system is our body’s complex defense mechanism against harmful invaders like bacteria, viruses, and other pathogenic organisms. It involves various types of cells and proteins that work synergistically to neutralize and eliminate these harmful substances. Thus, anything that weakens this defense network can…
