Our bodies are not equipped to handle the amount of sugar in modern diets from "summary" of Fat Chance by Robert H. Lustig
The sad truth is that our bodies were not designed to cope with the excessive amounts of sugar that are present in modern diets. Our ancestors did not have access to the sugary foods and drinks that we consume on a daily basis. Their diets consisted mainly of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and the occasional honey treat. This limited exposure to sugar meant that their bodies were able to regulate their blood sugar levels effectively. In contrast, our modern diets are filled with sugary beverages, processed foods, and sweet treats that are high in added sugars. This constant influx of sugar overwhelms our bodies' natural ability to process and metabolize it. The result is a spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash that leaves us feeling tired, irritable, and craving more sugar. When we consume too much sugar, our bodies are forced to release large amounts of insulin to bring our blood sugar levels back down. Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance, a condition in which our cells become less responsive to insulin's signals. This can eventually progress to type 2 diabetes, a serious chronic disease that can have devastating consequences for our health. Furthermore, the excess sugar that our bodies cannot use for energy is converted into fat by the liver. This can lead to the accumulation of visceral fat, which surrounds our organs and increases our risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and other metabolic disorders. In addition, the high levels of fructose found in many sugary foods and drinks can contribute to fatty liver disease, a condition that can lead to liver failure if left untreated.- The amount of sugar in modern diets far exceeds what our bodies are equipped to handle. This overconsumption of sugar can have serious consequences for our health, leading to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic disorders. It is essential that we take steps to reduce our sugar intake and adopt a more balanced and nutritious diet to protect our health and well-being.