Interesting facts:

  • Sugar is linked to the inflammatory response that is considered to influence mood, and even the course of MS
  • There is no scientific evidence that suggests that refined sugars cause symptomatic flare ups in MS, but it is still recommended that intake should be limited
  • Dietary patterns that are high sugar are associated with a higher prevalence in MS
  • There are studies that are investigating whether diabetes increase the risk for Parkinson’s Disease
  • There is no miracle diet for MS, but there are some strategies we can do to reduce symptoms like inflammation, fatigue and numbness
  • An interesting study compared the differences between a high-sugar + high-fat diet and a high-fat diet on the effect on BDNF (low BDNF is linked with depression) levels in rodents. The rodents that were fed a high-sugar + high fat diet showed a decrease in BDNF levels

 

The PROBLEM??

Sugar is EVERYWHERE. We need to think beyond cutting back on deserts, and now start to think about the secret sugar being put onto our plate at a restaurant. These are added sugars.

 

Added sugars, also known as processed sugars, are not developed by nature and are a common ingredient to enhance the flavour for most foods. Examples include; dextrose, maltose, high fructose corn syrup, sucrose, to name a few.

 

Examples of hidden sugars in some common food:

  • tomato sauce (27.5g/100g)
  • cordial (24.6g/100ml)
  • chocolate (62g/100g)
  • French salad dressing (3g/tablespoon)
  • some breads
  • some frozen meals
  • some muesli/granola bars

 

Be weary of the flow on effects of a high sugar diet.

An even bigger problem is the concern that a high sugar diet can lead to becoming overweight. There is the thought that individuals who have a high intake in refined sugars are also more likely to consume processed foods. This leaves your body undernourished and leads to overeating. Becoming overweight with MS can lead to increased inflammation, fatigue, vitamin D deficiency and depression.

 

How much added sugar is allowed?

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends limiting the amount of added sugars you consume to no more than half of your daily discretionary calories allowance. For most women, that’s no more than 100 calories per day, or about 6 teaspoons of sugar (25 grams). For men, it’s 150 calories per day, or about 9 teaspoons (36 grams).

 

What you can expect after reducing your sugar intake.

  • Improved mood and mental health
  • Stabilising energy levels by controlling insulin release after blood sugar spikes
  • Improved digestion by not inducing gut inflammation
  • Reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease
  • Manage your bodyweight through controlling calorie intake

 

Tips to reduce your intake.

  1. Start reading labels. Most processed foods contain high fructose corn syrup, or some form of processed sugar.
  2. Be weary of Fat Free and Low Fat! These often contain added sugar to make them taste as good as their full fat equivalents!
  3. Take it out of your coffee
  4. If you get a craving – have some water instead!
  5. Or... brush your teeth! Seriously. Toothpaste numbs the sweet receptors in the mouth which is why orange juice tastes horrible after brushing!
  6. Consider a dietician if you need further help.