|
Sweet
temptation
We should all eat less sugar, according to the World Health
Organisation. But sugar is a natural food – and it tastes
good. Just how bad can it be?
We
all know we eat too much sugar. Even those with the healthiest
of diets can find themselves reaching for a sugar hit when
that afternoon energy slump sets in. But last week, the World
Health Organisation (WHO) declared that sugar consumption,
especially in the West, has got way out of hand and said it
was time we called a halt. Their new report says that sugar
should make up no more than 10 per cent of a balanced diet.
The WHO compiled the report with the help of 30 international
experts, including the leading scientist on obesity in the
US. It says the report "contains the best currently available
scientific evidence on the relationship of diet, nutrition
and physical activity to chronic diseases". It also calls
for a clampdown on salt and saturated fats.
Sugar
provides us with virtually no nutrients, so if we stopped
eating it tomorrow we wouldn't be any less nourished. It is
not your friend and so have as less sugar as possible in your
diet. To do this you will have to reduce the amount of sugar
you add to your tea or coffee or juice. Have cereals without
sugar. Avoid non-diet soft drinks. Instead, enjoy diet drinks/minerals
or 100% fruit juice. Minimise the intake of so-called treats
like biscuits, chocolates, sweets and cakes.
|
