Have you noticed that sugar is currently in the crosshairs? The key types of sugar currently being debated are the refined processed sugar and high fructose corn syrup found in processed food. Note that researchers are not challenging sugar found naturally in fruits and vegetables, as these sugars also contain balancing fiber and a variety of nutrients.
On April 1, the television program 60 Minutes presented research currently tracking the impact of sugar consumption on the human body. The key message was that sugar is “toxic.”
In addition, the University of California, Davis and Harvard School for Public Health recently released research reports showing links between sugar consumption and increased risk of heart disease.
Motivated by the American Heart Association’s recommendation to reduce sugary drink consumption, the Center for Science in the Public Interest is sponsoring a Sugary Drinks Summit in June 2012 to strengthen initiatives to reduce sugary-drink consumption in the U.S.
Proponents of sugar say that this research is directing attention away from the problem of general overconsumption. It is eating too much, they believe, that is more likely the cause of health problems related to obesity and cardiovascular disease.
Issue: Do you believe sugar is safe?
If you are interested in learning more about sugar and your health, the following websites are offered to get you started in your research.
PRO Issue Link #1: Sugar Association Responds To 60 Minutes: Unfounded Accusations Mislead Consumers(4/1/12)
Sugar – sweet by nature
PRO Issue Link #2: ’60 Minutes’ Attacks Sugar as Toxic, Like ‘Cocaine’ (4/3/12)
by Mike Ciandella
NewsBusters
[presents opinion of bias in program]
PRO Issue Link #3: Sweet Facts You Should Know About Sugar (5/22/11)
Ask DrSears
[general information]
CON Issue Link #1: Sugar and kids: The toxic truth (4/1/12)
60 Minutes Overtime Staff
CON Issue Link #2: Not all sugars bad, but try to limit intake (4/3/12)
By Dr. David B. Samadi
FoxNews.com
[identifies university research]
CON Issue Link #3: CSPI, Health Advocates Announce Sugary Drinks Summit(2/15/12)
Center for Science in the Pubic Interest
You are invited to add your comments and share other related online resources.
For additional issues with related resources, visit the American Holistic Health Association’s Special Updates eReport Archives and note the monthly Featured Issue. The issue may be related to a health issue or a health freedom issue.