Glucose is the preferred source of energy for all body and brain functions. Glucose comes from various sugars we consume, in the form of natural or refined, simple or complex carbohydrates. Depending on the food source, glucose is digested and absorbed at different rates, and can be harmful or beneficial to our health.

Sugar The Body Needs

Sugars are the building blocks of all carbohydrates. In their natural wholesome state sugars come in the form of simple carbohydrates (made of one or two natural sugars – e.g. fruits, raw honey, milk) or complex carbohydrates (containing a web of many natural sugars – e.g. starches and fibre found in whole grains, legumes and starchier vegetables).

On the other hand, refined simple carbohydrates (e.g. white table sugar, high fructose corn syrup, refined syrups), and refined complex carbohydrates (e.g. white flour products, white pasta, white rice) are stripped of their key nutrients. These ‘missing’, essential nutrients (minerals, vitamins, and fibre) enable slower digestion, and a steady release of glucose to our blood. Our body and brain function more efficiently and effectively with a steady flow of glucose, rather than a rush to our system.

Our body creates insulin (a hormone) to regulate the level of sugar in our blood. If too much insulin needs to be produced due to over-consuming refined simple sugars and processed foods, excessive stress is put on our pancreas and other organs, potentially leading to Type II Diabetes (high-blood glucose) or Hypoglycaemia (low-blood glucose). Our body thinks it needs more sugar, so cravings and over-eating of unhealthy sugar-laden foods is often the outcome.


Sugar The Body Doesn’t Need

Refined sugars and carbohydrates, stripped of essential nutrients, results in these foods being absorbed far too quickly; they are unwanted and therefore stored as fat, leading to over-weight problems, obesity and ultimately an unhealthy, under-nourished body with the potential of developing associated illnesses (fatigue, mental health issues, diabetes, cancer, heart disease and so on). Additionally, in order to metabolise these foods, our body is robbed of stored nutrients (especially Vitamins B, C, chromium, magnesium); their deficiency can impact the production of neurotransmitters, thereby effecting how well our brain functions.

However, NATURAL simple carbohydrates, and especially wholesome complex carbohydrates, require more digestive support, providing a slow release of glucose. The necessary nutrients are intact, enabling slower efficient metabolism; fibre (only found in plant-based products) aids in the elimination of waste from the body, keeps the colon and bowels healthy and gives us a feeling of satiety (which mean we are less inclined to overeat). Natural simple carbs, although nutritious and good for us, will provide a quicker supply of glucose; therefore, those who struggle to maintain their blood glucose levels should monitor their consumption of natural simple carbs.

What You Can Do

In summary, wholesome fibrous foods, in their natural state, should be consumed – they are the preferred source of energy, and provide a range of nutrients and fiber. Complex carbohydrates enable a slow steady supply of glucose, providing constant energy to our body and brain tissues and cells. Natural simple carbs are best consumed along with some protein and healthy fats, so that they are absorbed more slowly. Refined carbohydrates, which are stripped of all their goodness, should be avoided, or consumed only as an occasional treat.

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^{This article was originally published on Health and Vitality blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author.} 

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