Re: Think that sweetener is safe? Think again.
Sugar and Obesity
Many people beleve that sugar is fattenining and can cause obesity. Sugar is a carbohydrate and all carbohydrates provide 4 kilocalories per gram of sugar. High fat-not sugar- intakes are associated with a greater risk of obesity. Fat is a more concentrated source of energy, and provides 9 kilocalories per gram. However, many foods high in sugar such as doughnuts and cookies are also high in fat. Excess energy intake can from any source will cause obesity, but sugar by itsself is no more likely to cause obesity than starch or protein. The increased availability of low-fat and fat-free foods has not reduced obesity rates in the U.S. Some speculate that consumers equate fat-free with calorie-free, and eat more of these foods, not realizinf that fat-free foods often have higher sugar content, which makes any calorie savings negligible.
Sugar and Hear Disease
Risk factors for heart disease include genetic predisposition, smoking, high blood pressure, high blood cholestrol levels, diabetes, and obesity. Sugar by itsself does not cause heart disease. However, if intake of high sugar foods contributes to obesity, then risk for heart disease increases. In addition excessive intake of refined sugar can alter blood lipids in carbohydrate-sensitive people, increasing their risk for heart disease. However, a high fat intake is more likely to promote obesity than a high sugar intake.
"To hear is to doubt. To see is to be deceived. But to feel is to believe." -- SGM Ed Parker
"Sic vis pacem parabellum - If you want peace, prepare for war." -- "The Punisher"
"Praying Mantis, very good. . . For catching bugs." --Jackie Chan
"A horse stance is great for taking a dump" --Jet Li