- Natural sugars occur naturally in fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and grains, while added sugars provide excess calories and can lead to health problems.
- Consuming natural sugar can benefit overall health-boosting energy levels, strengthening the immune system function, improving cognitive performance, and aiding digestion.
- Healthy beverages that contain natural sugars include milk tea, yogurt smoothies, and fruit juice.
- Remember to choose healthy options like 100% juice with no added sugar or preservatives when consuming a sweet drink. This way, you can enjoy the sweetness of sugar without any guilt!
Sugar is an ingredient that is used in a wide variety of food and drinks. There are two main types of sugars: natural and added. Natural sugars occur naturally in fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and grains, while added sugars are any sugars or syrups that are added during the processing or preparation of food and drinks. While natural sugars provide essential nutrients, added sugars are a significant source of excess calories that can lead to weight gain and other health problems. Here’s what you need to know about sugar and its benefits when consumed properly.
Sugar and Its Benefits
It’s no secret that sugar has a bad reputation. All too often, it’s demonized as an unhealthy indulgence that should only be consumed in moderation. But what if we told you that consuming this sweet treat has some positive health benefits? That’s right—sugar can be good for your body in specific scenarios. Here are the four times when sugar is beneficial for your body.
Boosting Your Energy Levels
Sugar can be a great way to boost your energy levels when consumed in its natural form. For example, eating fruit like an apple or banana can give you quick energy to power through the day without relying on sugary snacks or energy drinks. Plus, unlike many other energy sources, natural sugars won’t lead to a crash later on; they’ll provide you with sustainable energy throughout the day.
Strengthening Immune System Function
Believe it or not, consuming sugar can help strengthen your immune system function! Natural sugars in fruits contain antioxidants that protect your cells from free radicals and other toxins that can weaken your immune system over time. So next time you feel under the weather, reach for fresh fruit instead of processed candy—your immune system will thank you!
Improving Cognitive Performance
Sugar isn’t just good for physical health; it can also be beneficial for cognitive performance! For example, a study published by ScienceDaily found that consuming glucose (i.e., drinking orange juice) helps improve memory and overall mental performance in elderly individuals and those suffering from dementia-related illnesses. The same study also showed that glucose consumption improved alertness and concentration among healthy adults aged 18-30.
Aiding Digestive Health
Finally, consuming the right kind of sugar can help improve digestive health! According to WebMD, probiotic bacteria in yogurt feed off lactose (the type of sugar found naturally in dairy products). As they break down this sugar, they produce lactic acid, which helps keep harmful bacteria at bay while aiding digestion and improving overall gut health. So don’t forget to add some yogurt to your grocery list next time you hit the store!
Healthy Beverages With Sugar
If you want to benefit from sugar’s positive effects, choosing the right kinds of beverages is essential. Here are a few healthy drinks that contain natural sugars:
Milk Tea
One of the tastiest beverages that contain natural sugars is milk tea. Not only does it provide you with the energy boost that sugar provides, but it also contains protein and calcium—all in one delicious cup! If you even want a better version of this, consider purchasing a tasty Thai bubble tea. This is made from a high-quality milk tea with chewy tapioca pearls. It’s a tasty treat that can also satisfy your hunger.
Yogurt Smoothies
Another great sugar-filled drink is a yogurt smoothie. This is a great way to get your daily dose of probiotics, and it also contains natural sugars from yogurt and fruit. As a bonus, add some granola or nuts to make it more nutritious.
Fruit Juice
Choose natural fruit juice instead of sugary sodas if you’re looking for a refreshing beverage. Freshly-squeezed orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C and potassium. In contrast, apple juice provides natural sugars, and vitamins A and C. Just make sure to choose 100% juice with no added sugar or preservatives.
So there you have it—sugar can be beneficial in moderation and in its natural form! Remember these tips and drinks next time you’re looking for a healthy beverage containing natural sugars. This way, you can enjoy sugar’s sweetness without any guilt.
