Natural vs. Refined Sugar

Sugar, in moderation, can actually be beneficial for our bodies. Because it is a simple carbohydrate, our bodies convert the glucose into energy. Not only do we have to watch the amount of sugar we eat, but the type of sugar matters too.The are two types of sugar: natural and refined. It’s important to understand the difference of the two, so you can be sure you are consuming the right one. The wrong type of sugar could actually be so harmful that it encourages the growth of cancer. Check out this advice about sugar from the experts at radiology Las Vegas trusts most.

Understanding the difference

Natural Sugar. It’s found in fruits as a fructose and in dairy products as lactose. Natural sugar is beneficial to our bodies, and even plays a vital role in treatment for cancer patients. Natural sugar provides essential nutrients that keep the body healthy.Refined Sugar. This comes from sugar cane or sugar beets. These are processed in order to obtain the sugar. In foods it is known as sucrose, which is a combination of glucose and fructose. Refined sugar is used in sweets such as cake, cookies and cereal. Food manufacturers will add chemicals with it to use in many foods and beverages. Foods that are low in fat actually have more sugar to enhance the flavor.When it comes down to it, natural sugar is the winner. Refined sugar is made with added chemicals that can be very harmful to our bodies. Not only that, but the types of foods refined sugar is used in aren't good for us.

Metabolism matters

Our bodies metabolize refined and natural sugar differently. Because refined sugar is in processed foods, our bodies work hard to break down the sugar as quickly as possible. This causes blood sugar levels to skyrocket. Because the body metabolized it so quickly, many of us will still feel hungry after eating it.

Sugar and cancer

Refined sugar is in nearly all manufactured foods. We are eating a lot more of it then our relatives did many decades ago. This has caused obesity to increase in both adults and children. Obesity is a leading cause of cancers such as breast, prostate, uterine, colorectal and pancreatic. Of course, there are many fruits that can help prevent this. Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries and apples have nutrients in them that fight off cancer cells.The best way to maintain a healthy weight and prevent cancer is to eat a diet with low refined sugar. Lean proteins and complex carbohydrates are the best food choices we can make.In addition to eating healthy, it’s important to get regular cancer screenings. Find a Las Vegas radiology location near you. To schedule an appointment with the experts at radiology Las Vegas trusts most, contact 702.732.6000.