Study finds completely avoiding sugar may be harmful to health

You are likely among those who occasionally experience sudden cravings for something sweet. Sugar consumption is common in the modern era and while excessive intake increases the risk of various diseases completely avoiding it may also be harmful to health. This was revealed in a recent medical study.

A study conducted by the Dasman Diabetes Institute in Kuwait found that completely eliminating sugar from the diet may not be as beneficial as many people assume. Researchers noted that total avoidance of sugar could negatively affect gut health and metabolic function.

The study involved feeding mice a low-fat diet completely free of sugar while another group was given a similar low-fat diet containing sugar.

After 16 weeks, both groups were analyzed to observe the effects of sugar elimination on insulin sensitivity, metabolic hormone circulation, glucose levels, gut microbiota and inflammation in the liver and intestines.

The results showed that mice that completely avoided sugar experienced several negative effects. Their glucose control was impaired, insulin resistance increased, gut bacteria balance was disrupted, intestinal inflammation increased and the risk of fat accumulation in the liver also rose.

Researchers concluded that eliminating sugar entirely from the diet may have harmful effects on gut and metabolic health. They further stated that the findings highlight the importance of a balanced dietary approach to protect the gut and immune system.

According to the researchers, this is one of the first studies to examine the effects of completely removing sugar from the diet. They added that the results may help in shaping future dietary recommendations.