Sugar: Why it is Such a Concern

As you probably know, sugar is a big enemy of a healthy
diet. And you may have noticed, that the more sugar you
consume, the more you crave it. While sugar is definitely worth indulging in
once in awhile, over-indulging can cause many health problems, both in
the short term and the long term.
Why, however, has it become such a problem? Here are some interesting facts about sugar and why it has become such a topic of concern in recent years:

  • Today’s Consumption: Today, an average American consumes 2-3 pounds of sugar each week. While at the end of the 19th century (1887-1890), the average American consumed only 5 lbs. per year.
  • A Continual Rise: Over the last 20 years, sugar consumption in the U.S. has increased from 26 pounds to 135 lbs. of sugar per person per year.
  • Hidden Culprits: Sugar consumption includes highly
    refined sugars that are incorporated into many of the foods we eat
    (bread, peanut butter, condiments, sauces, etc.). Some of these are
    better known as sucrose (table sugar), dextrose (corn sugar), and high-fructose corn syrup.
  • 4 Classes: 4 classes of simple sugars (Sucrose,
    fructose, honey, and malts) are deemed