For a very long time now, I thought sugar was my friend. Over the years, in its various forms, sugar has cheered me up when I was feeling down. It has been the highlight of birthday parties, the guest star at most holiday functions and available whenever I needed or wanted it. But sugar has not been my friend, and for the longest time I thought I needed only to exercise to compensate a balance for calorie purposes.
I raise this topic mainly because this month I have focused on issues relating to avoiding sickness at work and other preventative measures to keep healthy during a season of colds, flus and allergies. Generally speaking, I don’t think most of us realize how much sugar contributes to the demise of our immune system.
First of all, sugar is not only evident in the obvious choices of candy bars, cakes and soft drinks. Sugar is processed in many different forms and integrated into everything from breads and cereals to condiments, sauces and frozen meals. This is why many sources say the average American consumes 2-3 pounds of sugar each week (Gasp! Yes it’s true).
Not only can sugar suppress the immune system, it can increase bad cholesterol (LDLs), cause hypoglycemia, weakens defense to bacteria, causes kidney damage, causes acidic stomach, and contributes to diabetes, osteoporosis and cardio vascular disease. This is barely touching the long list of negative effects that sugar can have. If I were to print the entire list of impacts sugar can have on your health, you would surely feel sickened by it.
Sugar tends to feed bacteria and yeast and therefore cause inflammation. So in a time when you might start to feel under the weather, be conscientious of what you are putting in your mouth. Read the labels of the foods you are buying at the grocery store and start paying attention, you will likely be surprised at just how much sugar you are consuming. The holidays are always going to be gushing with treats and desserts, but plan ahead and implement moderation. If you do find that you are excessive in your sugar intake, cutting it back may be one of the most helpful things you can do for yourself right now to stay healthy and prevent illness both now and in the future.
Your post is right on time for the holidays. One of the easiest ways to reduce the amount of hidden sugar (fat & salt) in your diet, is to try to stay away from processed food. Craving sugar is the symptom, not the cause. The cause is usually something that sugar or money can’t buy.
This is a place where women business owners can make a huge difference in the world. One of the best ways to avoid the sugar in pre-packaged foods is to cook for yourself or bring lunch from home. As women entrepreneurs, we have the ability to look at life and business holistically. So how can you help maintain the health of your employees — and your own?
If you have a facility, you can provide a nice eating area with a small sink, 2-burner stove and table and chairs. Make it a pleasant area and don’t fret if people gather there. After all, they don’t call it a “kitchen-table cabinet” for nothing. Great decisions can be made in a kitchen!
Provide time for your employees to prepare and eat meals. Break bread with them from time to time. Synergy will happen, everyone will be more relaxed and healthier.
Finally, the obvious — if you have a vending machine, supply it with fruits, vegetables and nuts.