What is Sugar?

Sugar is a type of carbohydrate found in most kinds of food, including fruits, grains, milk and candies. It’s one of the most commonly used ingredients in foods, and is the main source of energy for most organisms. While it has many uses, eating too much sugar can be detrimental to your health, so it’s important to understand what it is and how it works.

Chemical Properties of Sugar

Sugar is a white, crystalline, odorless powder with a sweet taste. It is composed of one molecule of carbon, two molecules of oxygen, and 12 molecules of hydrogen, and is classified as a carbohydrate. While simple sugars (monosaccharides) have only one type of sugar molecule, complex sugars have multiple types, like fructose and sucrose. These molecules come together to form a sweet taste that’s easily recognizable.

Health Effects of Eating Too Much Sugar

Too much sugar can lead to a range of health issues, including weight gain, cavities and diabetes. For starters, because it’s quickly and easily digested, eating too much sugar can cause your blood sugar levels to spike, and when your blood sugar levels become too high too often, your cells become resistant to insulin, a hormone your body needs to process sugar. Without insulin, sugar remains in your blood, eventually leading to type 2 diabetes. Additionally, because sugar is high in calories of empty energy, eating too much of it can lead to obesity and weight gain.

To maintain a healthy lifestyle and reduce the risk of any of these issues, it’s important to keep sugar intake to a minimum, especially when it’s added to otherwise healthy foods. Foods high in sugar can be labeled as “Natural Sweeteners,” like honey and maple syrup, but it’s important to check the label first, as even these can be high in sugar content.

In general, it’s best to try and limit your sugar intake as much as possible, as the health implications of it can be far-reaching and long-lasting. With that being said, some sugar in moderation can be beneficial, as it is often added to foods that lack flavor like whole grain cereals and plain yogurt. Knowing what sugar is and how it affects your body will help you make healthier decisions and create an overall better lifestyle.