The most frightening thing about Halloween is not the ghosts and goblins. It’s refined white sugar!
With many trick or treat walks being cancelled, it is tempting to swim in a sugar bowl behind closed doors at home. But will the results of those actions be scary?
Studies show that too much sugar causes chronic inflammation in the body. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that women who consume excess sugar are prone to chronic inflammation and heart disease.
Click on the pumpkin photo to check out my
Guide to a Healthy Hallowe'en treats!
So what is the connection between high blood sugar and heart disease?
When you eat too much sugar and refined carbohydrate foods, not only does your blood sugar go up but your blood pressure does too. Having excess sugar in your bloodstream can create inflammation in your blood vessels which can damage their lining, especially when blood pressure is high. The resulting cracks, tears, and lesions created by this inflammation are quickly repaired by low-density lipoprotein (LDL, also known as bad cholesterol). When LDL arrives at the site of injury and is pasted onto the damaged area, it can cause a narrowing of the arteries over time, and that can lead to a whole host of cardiovascular problems.
If you plan to indulge in sweet things this Halloween, consider swapping your refined sugar-laden sweets for ones that contain safe sweeteners such as monk fruit or stevia. You will enjoy the day, week, month, and year so much more!
Are you interested in going sugar-free? Do you need extra support? Join the Meals that Heal Thrive Tribe today and enjoy doing a 30-day Sugar-free challenge! It is so much easier and fun when you take on a challenge as a group. After a month of being sugar-free, you may be surprised just how fantastic you can feel!
Try this tasty homemade treat this Halloween!
Heavenly Hemp Butter Cups