Do we need to go Zero sugar for health? All about the latest diet trend

Nutritionists call for not adding any extra sugar to your food or drinks to be able to complete the challenge of this diet

Sugar is considered poison by health experts across the world – the reason behind the many diseases and ailments like diabetes, obesity, kidney and heart issues, etc.

Even though it is not possible to eliminate sugar from our diet, a conscious decision like following a no-sugar diet would increase your curiosity to know what it is all about.

What is a no-sugar diet?

While it seems obvious from the name, according to health experts, there is nothing like getting rid of sugar from our foods.

Your body spends more time digesting whole foods and processing their sugars. With added sugars, your body absorbs them more quickly or cannot process them fast enough.

You can indulge in variations of this diet which would include no added sugar, but natural ones are found in abundance in fruits and vegetables, which you cannot banish.

What to eat on a no-sugar diet?

Nutritionists recommend eating any whole foods in this diet, other than the ones that have been modified, or added sugar to.

Stay away from foods that contain any of the following:

Here are a few benefits of cutting out sugar from your daily diet:

Helps regulate blood sugar levels

For your body to process blood sugar, the pancreas releases insulin, which allows the sugar to enter your body cells. But when lots of sugar enter the bloodstream, the pancreas releases huge amounts of insulin to try and keep up. If this happens often enough, you can develop insulin resistance, causing diabetes.

Therefore, reducing your added sugar intake, exercising, and following a healthy diet can improve insulin sensitivity. This can help regulate your blood sugar levels and decrease your risk for diabetes.

Helps managing weight

Consuming sugar, which is below the recommended daily amounts for added sugar, is completely safe and would not cause unhealthy weight gain. However, several studies have shown that diets high in added sugar are associated with obesity and increased belly fat.

For the sake of your health, limit sugar-sweetened foods and beverages, and always indulge in fresh juices and foods.

Helps with heart health

Sugars are related both indirectly and directly linked to heart diseases. They tend to increase triglycerides, a type of blood fat, and cholesterol which are reasons behind heart attacks, and strokes.

Even if you are already at a healthy weight, reducing your intake of sugar can help keep your blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides at healthy levels.

Lowers stress and depression

Our brain functions are mostly dependent on what we eat, impacting our mood. Sugary foods and beverages are linked to a higher risk of depressive symptoms and depression. When you consume sugar, your brain releases endorphins and dopamine that make you feel good at the moment, but over time cause stress and anxiety, leading to depression and other mental health issues.

Reduces risk of liver disease

Consuming excessive amounts of sugar can lead to ailments like fatty liver disease, which is a life-threatening condition.

The liver breaks down fructose, a type of added sugar, but if it is consumed in excess, fructose is turned into fat, causing issues in the liver.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.