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| - Last Updated on July 11, 2024 by Nivedita
Quick Take
A social media post suggests that “sugar is cancer”. It claims that sugar is responsible for a lot of diseases. We did the fact check and termed it as mostly false.
The Claim
As per a post on Instagram, “Sugar is cancer”. The post claims sugar is toxic and is the cause of ADHD, Alzheimer’s, insomnia and cavities.
Fact Check
Social media is flooded with various claims about the harmful effects of sugar on health, including its association with cancer and other diseases.
Does sugar cause cancer?
No, not exactly. Sugar does not cause cancer. Sugar is not carcinogenic (cancer causing). Even though some studies have shown associations between high sugar intake and certain types of cancer, such as pancreatic cancer and breast cancer, the evidence is not conclusive. Sugar intake alone doesn’t directly increase cancer risk; instead, how your body processes sugar may play a role. Consuming sugary foods independently, especially if you’re insulin-resistant, can lead to spikes in blood sugar and increased release of insulin-like growth factor (IGF). This is likely to promote cancer growth.
The American Cancer Society states that consuming too many sugary foods and beverages may contribute to weight gain. And, this increased weight is a risk factor for some cancers, there is no direct evidence proving that sugar alone causes cancer.
Another fake post claim that Sugar feeds Cancer cells in the body. So, cutting down on sugar will kill Cancer cells in the body.
What does an oncologist say?
We checked with Dr Pooja Khullar, Senior Consultant Radiation Oncologist, from Dharamshila Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, New Delhi for her expert insights. She says, “There is no direct evidence that sugar alone causes cancer, the indirect effects of high sugar consumption on weight gain, insulin resistance, and inflammation are well-documented risk factors for cancer. Maintaining a balanced diet with limited intake of refined sugars is advisable for overall health and cancer prevention.”
Here is an interview of Dr. Naveen Sanchety, Senior Oncologist, Sarvodaya Hospital, Faridabad. He informs us that Sugar essentially does not feed cancer. Excess sugar intake may lead to weight gain and obesity, which may further lead to cancer.
Does sugar cause ADHD, Alzheimer’s, insomnia, and cavities?
The post alleges that sugar is responsible for conditions like ADHD, Alzheimer’s, insomnia, and cavities. The relationship between sugar and these conditions is complex. Excessive sugar intake may worsen symptoms of ADHD, but it is still understudied and inconclusive. High sugar consumption contributes to weight gain, leading to a higher risk of developing conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. But, there is insufficient evidence to support a direct causal link between sugar and Alzheimer’s or insomnia. A study says that a diet rich in refined carbohydrates (devoid of nutrients) can increase the risk of insomnia among postmenopausal women. Cavities, however, are caused by the interaction of sugar with bacteria in the mouth. This leads to the production of acids that erode tooth enamel.
Is sugar toxic?
No, sugar itself is not toxic in the same way as substances like arsenic or cyanide. However, consuming large amounts of added sugars, especially in the form of sugary beverages and processed foods, can contribute to various health problems. For example, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. It’s important to moderate sugar intake as part of a balanced diet. Also, physical activity plays a major role.
What is the recommended amount of sugar?
The post does not provide information about the recommended amount of sugar. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the recommended daily intake of added sugars for most women is no more than 100 calories per day (about 6 teaspoons or 25 grams), and for men, it is 150 calories per day (about 9 teaspoons or 36 grams). The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) suggests 20-25 grams of sugar per day for the Indian population. However, it’s essential to note that these recommendations may vary based on individual factors such as age, activity level, and overall diet.
What are the benefits of sugar?
Sugar often gets a bad name, but it does have some benefits when consumed in moderation. Our bodies depend on glucose (a type of sugar) to sustain life. Glucose serves as the primary fuel for the brain and is important for providing energy to all parts of the body. Naturally occurring sugars found in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products also come packaged with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fibre, which are essential for overall health. Additionally, sugar can enhance the flavour and palatability of foods, making them more enjoyable to eat. However, it’s necessary to balance sugar intake with other nutrient-rich foods and to be mindful of added sugars in processed and packaged foods products. Moderation is key to reaping the benefits of sugar without overdoing it. One pro tip would be to get more active during the day and burn those extra calories.
What are the harms of excess sugar?
Excessive sugar intake can lead to a range of health problems, including weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, dental cavities, and metabolic syndrome. Consuming too much sugar can also lead to energy crashes, mood swings, and nutrient deficiencies, as sugary foods often displace more nutritious options in the diet.
The claim post portrays sugar in a highly negative light. It’s essential to be mindful of sugar intake and limit consumption of added sugars. But, demonising sugar entirely oversimplifies the issue. Moderation is key, and focusing on a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods, along with regular physical activity, is important for overall health and well-being.
Conclusion
Sugar is not directly responsible for causing cancer. But it is important to moderate intake due to its association with various health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. The key is to prioritise whole foods and limit consumption of processed and sugary items while maintaining an active lifestyle for optimal health.
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