Dr. Lam Author of
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Common table sugar represents about 20 to 25 percent of the daily caloric intake of the average American. This translates into the equivalent of half a pound a day and over 5 tons in a lifetime. In the early 1800's, the average sugar consumption was 12 pounds per person annually. This increased to 124 pounds in 1980 and to 152 pounds in 1997. It is estimated that 75 percent of all sugar we consume comes from processed food.
Studies have linked a high sugar intake with an increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and premature aging.
Sugar and simple refined carbohydrates are harmful to health and detrimental to anyone interested in anti-aging. In fact, the chances of you getting sick on a high sugar diet is far greater than if you smoke. An aggressive reduction in sugar intake is advisable if your family has a history of diabetes or cancer, or if you want to lead an anti-aging lifestyle. If you have to eat dessert, consume it during the day and not just before bedtime. Sugar, taken before bedtime, also reduces growth hormone release and increases cortisol, the "bad" hormone. Trying to restrict intake of foods such as sugar in coffee and bread is a good first step. After your body has been detoxified by restricted sugar intake, you will feel lighter, more energetic, and better. Treat sugar as a drug - stay as far away as possible.
A decreased sugar and refined carbohydrate intake should be part of an overall anti-aging Mediterranean diet that focuses on three main pillars: a reduction of calories as neccessary, an increase in green leafy vegetables, and a reduction of sugar intake.
Specifically, the consumption of lean meats (such as wild game or non-grain fed, free-range domesticated animals), fish (such as cold water fish such like salmon which contains omega 3 fatty acids), vegetables, whole fruits, raw nuts and seeds, legumes, and whole grain cereal are recommended. Notably absent from this diet are dairy products, refined cereal, refined grains (neocarbs), trans-fat (margarine and fried foods) and concentrated sweets.
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