SUGARS AND THE BODY EPISODE : THREE

SUGARS AND THE BODY

                                                                  EPISODE : THREE

 

🔷 Do sugars cause tooth decay?

Tooth decay is the result of many factors, including heredity and the make-up and flow of saliva. Sugars and other carbohydrates such as starchy foods also play a part. Bacteria on the teeth (dental plaque) feed on carbohydrates and make acids. The acids then break down the tooth to form a cavity.

Frequent snacks of foods that contain carbohydrates, especially those that stick to the teeth, may increase chances of decay.

The use of fluoride and better dental care has led to a decline in tooth decay in recent years. Experts also advise a balanced diet and brushing teeth after meals and snacks.

“Baby bottle mouth syndrome” is a significant cause of tooth decay in young children. Infants should not sleep with bottles filled with any carbohydrate-containing liquid. This includes milk, formula, and fruit juice.

 

🔷 Do sugars cause diabetes?

Researchers do not know why diabetes occurs, but they know sugars do not cause it. Diabetes is a disorder in the way the body handles sugars. People with diabetes either do not make enough insulin or they cannot use the insulin their bodies do make. Insulin is needed to use most sugars.

Diabetes treatment includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and medication when prescribed. According to The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, most people with diabetes can enjoy sugars in limited amounts.

In addition to the role of sugar in food preparation, production, and its functional properties, sugar is used to create foods that are an integral part of cultural activities. Festive foods, such as sweetmeats and fruit cakes, come to mind. It would be difficult to imagine many cultural and religious events without special foods that contain sugar. Sugar is used in baked goods and sweets, and these are associated with happy occasions such as birthdays and weddings.

 

"Sugar has been part of our lives for centuries and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced lifestyle."

BANARASI MISTHAN BHANDAR