Tag: Refined sugars

Simple carbohydrates are sugars that the body breaks down and absorbs quickly for immediate energy. It is crucial to understand the distinct roles and sources of these carbs to make informed dietary choices that support overall health.

A 2016 study from Macquarie University revealed that men with a higher carbohydrate intake had stronger, less pleasant-smelling sweat. These surprising findings lead many to wonder: do carbs make you more stinky and what does the science say about the connection between diet and body odor?

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, carbohydrates should constitute 45% to 65% of your total daily calories, serving as the body's primary energy source. This scientific consensus fundamentally challenges the premise of the question, "What are carbohydrates and why are they bad?", revealing it as a profound oversimplification of a complex nutritional topic. The key distinction lies not in banning an entire food group, but in understanding the difference between beneficial complex carbohydrates and detrimental refined ones.

According to the World Health Organization, limiting free sugar intake to less than 10% of total energy is recommended to reduce the risk of overweight, obesity, and other health issues, all of which are linked to what happens when carbohydrates are eaten in excess. For many, this is a surprising truth, as the body’s response to a surplus of this vital macronutrient is complex and can have widespread effects on overall well-being.

According to the American Heart Association, most Americans consume far more added sugar than recommended, which can increase the risk of heart disease. However, this doesn't mean all sugars, including those from plants, are inherently bad for you. The context in which you consume plant sugars is the critical factor for your health.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, gallbladder problems are fairly common in Western countries due to diets high in processed and fatty foods. A poor diet is a significant factor contributing to the formation of gallstones, which can later travel and become stones in the bile duct.

According to studies, 20-50% of bariatric surgery patients experience dumping syndrome, a key reason that helps explain **why can't bariatric patients eat carbs** without complications. The dramatic changes to the digestive system post-surgery necessitate a complete dietary overhaul to prevent discomfort, aid healing, and ensure long-term weight management success.

While acute inflammation is a healthy and necessary immune response to injury, chronic, low-grade inflammation is linked to various chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Understanding **what foods can trigger inflammation** is a critical first step towards making dietary choices that support long-term health and well-being.