Food has been associated with a lot of misinformation due to misconceptions passed down from generation to generation, or rumors that we end up becoming part of our psychological belief system. Many Indians believe that eating curd/yoghurt or even lemon juice will give them a cold etc. These preconceived notions end up having a placebo effect and the person actually ends up with a cold: the power of thinking and the strength of our mind is evident in it. Let me address some common food facts and myths about sugar with the belief that the trend of false beliefs is not continuing.

Myth – Sugar makes you fat

Fact: Weight gain will happen when you eat more calories than you burn. Whether the calories come from eating high-fat foods, high-sugar foods, or even eating healthy foods in excess of 500 calories of your daily requirement, it will make you gain weight. Technically, being fat means 20% above your ideal body weight for Indians and 25% above your ideal weight for Americans. There is no evidence that eating too much sugar or simple carbohydrates stimulates appetite or leads to easier weight gain.

Myth: Sugar increases hyperactivity in growing children

Fact: Although parents associate high sugar intake (candy, chocolate, cake, ice cream) with hyperactive children who are difficult to manage, scientific evidence does not support this pattern of thinking.

Myth: Sugar causes tooth decay

Fact: Yes, eating sweets and foods that are high in sugar do tend to promote tooth decay and cavities. Regular tooth brushing after meals should be encouraged to prevent food from sticking to the teeth for too long.

Myth: Honey, brown sugar, and brown sugar are recommended for diabetics instead of white sugar

Fact: No, honey, brown sugar, brown sugar, and white sugar all contribute to the same blood glucose response. All of these should be avoided by diabetic people. Diabetics can use sweeteners occasionally.