Aarushi Bhadury

Study Shows Higher Risk Of Diabetes And Depression In People With 'Sweet Tooth'

Sweet and health (Credit- Canva)

We all love a sweet every now and then, while there are people who like less sugary and avoid sweets in general, they are a very common Indian household snack that you are bound to run into, especially if you are visiting a family. As we approach the festive season, every household is bustling with decorations, special snacks that are made just for the occasion as well as loads of sweets. 

This is also a treasure trove for people who love sweets, and have what we call a sweet tooth, meaning they prefer sweets more than other things. New research suggests that people who have a "sweet tooth" may be at an increased risk of developing certain health conditions, including depression, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. On the other hand, <span>health-conscious individuals</span> may face lower health risks and gain additional metabolic advantages from their <span>overall diet and lifestyle decisions</span>. 

There are many products and snacks available in the market that add free sugars to their product to make them more desirable and addictive. Basically, free sugar is added to food and drinks by manufacturers, cooks or consumers. The reason why it is worse for your health is because it rapidly gets absorbed by the body and can negatively affect your body if consumed in excessive amounts. Previous research has also shown that too much free sugar intake <span>leads to obesity</span>, type 2 diabetes, and mood disorders. 

The study told us that the lowest risk of heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and depression, as well as better blood sugar and blood lipid profiles, were of people who were more health conscious and the group of people who preferred sweets exhibited a 27% increased risk of depression, a 15% <span>higher risk of diabetes</span>, and a 22% elevated risk of stroke compared to the other two groups. Not only do the health- conscious bunch have less chances of health troubles but they also have lower levels of inflammatory biomarkers and improved energy metabolism, similar to the benefits of fasting or weight loss surgery. 

While they did consider the eating habits of a person and their food preferences, we need more research on different ethnic groups and their eating habits as there are many different types of sweets and eating habits, which makes their metabolism different from everyone else. 

While the study provides evidence for a link between sweet tooth and increased health risks, more research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the underlying workings of the body and what affects them. Reducing free sugar intake and adopting healthier eating habits can help mitigate these risks and improve overall health but you should also visit your healthcare professional to get a proper understanding of what you need and how your body can improve. 

If you are planning to pick up a new diet or cut off certain food items for better health, make sure to keep your doctor in the loop so that if anything starts affecting you too seriously, the doctor can help you better. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Sweet Tooth And Health

Higher Risk Of Diabetes

Diabetes And Depression

health-conscious individuals

overall diet and lifestyle decisions

leads to obesity

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We all love a sweet every now and then, while there are people who like less sugary and avoid sweets in general, they are a very common Indian household snack that you are bound to run into, especially if you are visiting a family. As we approach the festive season, every household is bustling with decorations, special snacks that are made just for the occasion as well as loads of sweets. This is also a treasure trove for people who love sweets, and have what we call a sweet tooth, meaning they prefer sweets more than other things. New research suggests that people who have a "sweet tooth" may be at an increased risk of developing certain health conditions, including depression, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. On the other hand, health-conscious individuals may face lower health risks and gain additional metabolic advantages from their overall diet and lifestyle decisions. Risks of free sugar and healthThere are many products and snacks available in the market that add free sugars to their product to make them more desirable and addictive. Basically, free sugar is added to food and drinks by manufacturers, cooks or consumers. The reason why it is worse for your health is because it rapidly gets absorbed by the body and can negatively affect your body if consumed in excessive amounts. Previous research has also shown that too much free sugar intake leads to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and mood disorders. The study told us that the lowest risk of heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and depression, as well as better blood sugar and blood lipid profiles, were of people who were more health conscious and the group of people who preferred sweets exhibited a 27% increased risk of depression, a 15% higher risk of diabetes, and a 22% elevated risk of stroke compared to the other two groups. Not only do the health- conscious bunch have less chances of health troubles but they also have lower levels of inflammatory biomarkers and improved energy metabolism, similar to the benefits of fasting or weight loss surgery. Where can the study improve?While they did consider the eating habits of a person and their food preferences, we need more research on different ethnic groups and their eating habits as there are many different types of sweets and eating habits, which makes their metabolism different from everyone else. While the study provides evidence for a link between sweet tooth and increased health risks, more research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the underlying workings of the body and what affects them. Reducing free sugar intake and adopting healthier eating habits can help mitigate these risks and improve overall health but you should also visit your healthcare professional to get a proper understanding of what you need and how your body can improve. If you are planning to pick up a new diet or cut off certain food items for better health, make sure to keep your doctor in the loop so that if anything starts affecting you too seriously, the doctor can help you better. 

study shows higher risk of diabetes and depression in people with 'sweet tooth'

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You Consume A Pound Of Insects Every Year—List Of Foods That Secretly Contain Bugs

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The thought of eating <span>insects</span> could even make non-vegetarians squirm, let alone vegetarians. But there a plenty of everyday food items that secretly contain insects. Discussion on the issue began after a report recently revealed that cockroaches were being added to chocolate bars. However, the claim was very quickly debunked. 

However, a similar report published in <em>Scientific American </em>claimed that a person consumes an average of one to two pounds of flies, maggots, and other bugs each year without even knowing it. Every day, food items like peanut butter, frozen vegetables and spices like cinnamon can contain a certain amount of bugs. 

<h2>What Should You Know About Insects In Your Food</h2>Peanut Butter

The peanut butter jar in your pantry can legally contain up to 136 insect parts, according to the <span>FDA</span>’s Food Defect Action Levels guide. From the field to your grocery store, insect fragments often make their way into food production.

The FDA permits up to 74 insect fragments in a 4.4-ounce chocolate bar. Cockroach parts are among the most common contaminants, adding nearly 6,000 bug pieces annually to a chocolate lover’s diet.

One gram of pasta can contain a bug fragment, with up to 225 insect parts allowed in a 225-gram portion. These fragments usually come from wheat, which itself may hold up to 75 parts per 50 grams.

Your coffee may contain around 120 insect parts per cup. The FDA approves coffee with less than 10 per cent insect infestation, translating to nearly 140,000 bug fragments consumed annually.

A single cup of raisins might have up to 35 fruit fly eggs and ten insects. The FDA ensures such small amounts are safe to consume, as eliminating all defects would make food production costly.

Canned mushrooms with up to 19 maggots and 74 mites are considered FDA-approved. While unappealing, these fragments are often too small to notice and provide protein comparable to chicken or salmon.

Frozen broccoli can include up to 60 aphids per 100 grams. Regular consumption might lead to unintentionally eating over 1,600 aphids a year, as these tiny bugs commonly infest crop fields.

A 14.5-ounce can of tomatoes can legally contain eight fly eggs or one maggot. Interestingly, insect eggs are a delicacy in some cultures, like Mexican caviar, made from aquatic insect eggs.

The FDA allows canned fruit juices to have one maggot per 250 millilitres. Despite this, insects are a natural part of food processing, so your morning OJ likely contains a harmless amount.

Ground pepper can legally hold up to 475 bug fragments per 50 grams. Those insect heads and legs may be adding more spice to your meals than you realise.

Up to 400 insect fragments are allowed per 50 grams of cinnamon. While this may not deter you from using the spice, it’s worth noting that your favourite desserts might not be entirely vegetarian.

Sauerkraut can contain up to 50 thrips, small stick-like insects. Knowing this might make you reconsider your next serving of this condiment.

Raspberries and blueberries can legally include up to four larvae or ten insects per 500 grams. These critters often end up unnoticed in canned or frozen berries. 

Diet & Nutrition

Insects

Insects in food

cockroaches in chocolate

The thought of eating insects could even make non-vegetarians squirm, let alone vegetarians. But there a plenty of everyday food items that secretly contain insects. Discussion on the issue began after a report recently revealed that cockroaches were being added to chocolate bars. However, the claim was very quickly debunked. However, a similar report published in Scientific American claimed that a person consumes an average of one to two pounds of flies, maggots, and other bugs each year without even knowing it. Every day, food items like peanut butter, frozen vegetables and spices like cinnamon can contain a certain amount of bugs. What Should You Know About Insects In Your FoodPeanut ButterThe peanut butter jar in your pantry can legally contain up to 136 insect parts, according to the FDA’s Food Defect Action Levels guide. From the field to your grocery store, insect fragments often make their way into food production.ChocolateThe FDA permits up to 74 insect fragments in a 4.4-ounce chocolate bar. Cockroach parts are among the most common contaminants, adding nearly 6,000 bug pieces annually to a chocolate lover’s diet.PastaOne gram of pasta can contain a bug fragment, with up to 225 insect parts allowed in a 225-gram portion. These fragments usually come from wheat, which itself may hold up to 75 parts per 50 grams.Coffee BeansYour coffee may contain around 120 insect parts per cup. The FDA approves coffee with less than 10 per cent insect infestation, translating to nearly 140,000 bug fragments consumed annually.RaisinsA single cup of raisins might have up to 35 fruit fly eggs and ten insects. The FDA ensures such small amounts are safe to consume, as eliminating all defects would make food production costly.MushroomsCanned mushrooms with up to 19 maggots and 74 mites are considered FDA-approved. While unappealing, these fragments are often too small to notice and provide protein comparable to chicken or salmon.Frozen BroccoliFrozen broccoli can include up to 60 aphids per 100 grams. Regular consumption might lead to unintentionally eating over 1,600 aphids a year, as these tiny bugs commonly infest crop fields.Canned TomatoesA 14.5-ounce can of tomatoes can legally contain eight fly eggs or one maggot. Interestingly, insect eggs are a delicacy in some cultures, like Mexican caviar, made from aquatic insect eggs.Fruit JuiceThe FDA allows canned fruit juices to have one maggot per 250 millilitres. Despite this, insects are a natural part of food processing, so your morning OJ likely contains a harmless amount.Ground PepperGround pepper can legally hold up to 475 bug fragments per 50 grams. Those insect heads and legs may be adding more spice to your meals than you realise.CinnamonUp to 400 insect fragments are allowed per 50 grams of cinnamon. While this may not deter you from using the spice, it’s worth noting that your favourite desserts might not be entirely vegetarian.SauerkrautSauerkraut can contain up to 50 thrips, small stick-like insects. Knowing this might make you reconsider your next serving of this condiment.BerriesRaspberries and blueberries can legally include up to four larvae or ten insects per 500 grams. These critters often end up unnoticed in canned or frozen berries. 

you consume a pound of insects every year—list of foods that secretly contain bugs

Why Should You Incorporate Ice Apple In Your Diet This Summer?

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What Happens When You Have A Sweet Tooth?

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Salak, commonly known as <span>snake fruit</span>, is a tropical fruit native to Indonesia that has gradually made its way to various parts of the world, including India. These trees are grown for their clustered fruit found at the base of the tree. Snake fruit has a scaly, red exterior and therefore received its name: snake fruit. The fruit is about the size of a <span>fig</span> and, once peeled, it looks like a large garlic clove. Beneath the snake-looking skin are three lobes of yellow or white pulp with flat skin inside them. With its distinctive reddish-brown scaly skin and a tangy, mildly sweet taste, this fruit is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrients. 

<h2>Here Is Why You Should Consider Adding Snake Fruit To Your Diet</h2><h2>1. Low Carbohydrate Content</h2>

If you are monitoring your carbohydrate intake, snake fruit is an excellent choice. It contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams, making it a lower-carb option compared to popular fruits like grapes and bananas. This makes it suitable for those looking to manage their blood sugar levels or maintain a low-carb diet.

Snake fruit is a rich source of dietary fibre, which is essential for digestive health. Fibre adds bulk to the stool, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Additionally, consuming fibre-rich foods like snake fruit can help you feel fuller for longer, potentially reducing overall calorie intake and aiding in weight management.

<h2>3. Packed with Essential Vitamins</h2>

This nutrient-dense fruit is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. It is particularly high in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts immunity and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, snake fruit contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and iron, which supports healthy blood circulation and prevents anaemia.

<h2>4. Moderate Natural Sugar Content</h2>

While snake fruit is naturally sweet, it contains a moderate amount of sugar compared to other high-sugar fruits. This makes it a suitable option for those watching their sugar intake, including individuals with diabetes. However, it is still advisable to consume it in moderation.

<h2>5. High Water Content for Hydration</h2>

One of the lesser-known benefits of snake fruit is its high water content. Foods with a high water content typically have a low-calorie density, meaning they can help you feel full without consuming too many calories. This makes snake fruit a hydrating and satisfying snack, particularly beneficial during hot weather.

Snake fruit is more than just an exotic fruit with a unique appearance. It is a nutritious addition to the diet, offering low carbs, high fibre, essential vitamins, and moderate natural sugars. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or incorporate it into salads and desserts, snake fruit can be a refreshing and health-boosting choice.

Snake Fruit

Snake fruit health benefits

Salak, commonly known as snake fruit, is a tropical fruit native to Indonesia that has gradually made its way to various parts of the world, including India. These trees are grown for their clustered fruit found at the base of the tree. Snake fruit has a scaly, red exterior and therefore received its name: snake fruit. The fruit is about the size of a fig and, once peeled, it looks like a large garlic clove. Beneath the snake-looking skin are three lobes of yellow or white pulp with flat skin inside them. With its distinctive reddish-brown scaly skin and a tangy, mildly sweet taste, this fruit is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Here Is Why You Should Consider Adding Snake Fruit To Your Diet1. Low Carbohydrate ContentIf you are monitoring your carbohydrate intake, snake fruit is an excellent choice. It contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams, making it a lower-carb option compared to popular fruits like grapes and bananas. This makes it suitable for those looking to manage their blood sugar levels or maintain a low-carb diet.2. High in Dietary FibreSnake fruit is a rich source of dietary fibre, which is essential for digestive health. Fibre adds bulk to the stool, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Additionally, consuming fibre-rich foods like snake fruit can help you feel fuller for longer, potentially reducing overall calorie intake and aiding in weight management.3. Packed with Essential VitaminsThis nutrient-dense fruit is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. It is particularly high in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts immunity and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, snake fruit contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and iron, which supports healthy blood circulation and prevents anaemia.4. Moderate Natural Sugar ContentWhile snake fruit is naturally sweet, it contains a moderate amount of sugar compared to other high-sugar fruits. This makes it a suitable option for those watching their sugar intake, including individuals with diabetes. However, it is still advisable to consume it in moderation.5. High Water Content for HydrationOne of the lesser-known benefits of snake fruit is its high water content. Foods with a high water content typically have a low-calorie density, meaning they can help you feel full without consuming too many calories. This makes snake fruit a hydrating and satisfying snack, particularly beneficial during hot weather.Snake fruit is more than just an exotic fruit with a unique appearance. It is a nutritious addition to the diet, offering low carbs, high fibre, essential vitamins, and moderate natural sugars. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or incorporate it into salads and desserts, snake fruit can be a refreshing and health-boosting choice.

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As the scorching sun takes over the skies, people are trying every remedy to keep themselves cool and refreshed. Many are turning to natural fruits and vegetables to beat the summer heat. One such fruit is the <span>ice apple</span> or Tadgoda. This lesser-known tropical fruit of the palmyra palm tree is perfect to beat the summer heat. Ice apples have a brown ice which needs to be peeled to extract their translucent and sweet pulp. Ice apple looks similar to litchi fruit and tastes slightly sweeter. They are a low-calorie fruit and are rich in calcium and phytonutrients, apart from sodium and potassium. Tadgola or ice apple helps cool the body, maintains electrolyte balance and works as a remedy for stomach ailments.

As the temperature soars, staying cool and hydrated becomes essential, and one fruit that stands out for its natural cooling properties is the ice apple. With its translucent, jelly-like texture and refreshing taste, ice apple is a seasonal fruit that not only quenches thirst but also offers a range of health benefits.

<h2>Natural Hydration And Cooling Effect</h2>

Ice apple is composed of approximately 95 per cent water, making it a natural coolant that effectively replenishes fluids lost through sweating during the hot summer months. Its rich mineral content, including potassium and magnesium, helps maintain the body’s electrolyte balance, preventing fatigue and promoting overall well-being.

This low-calorie fruit is packed with dietary fibre, aiding digestion and preventing constipation, a common issue exacerbated by heat. Additionally, ice apple is a source of essential vitamins such as vitamin C and B-complex, which strengthen the immune system and boost energy levels. Its low fat and calorie content make it an ideal choice for those looking to shed extra pounds without compromising on nutrition.

The subtle sweetness and juicy, melt-in-the-mouth texture of ice apple make it a delightful summer treat. Whether consumed as is or chilled, it provides an instant cooling sensation that is particularly satisfying on a hot day. It is a favorite among both children and adults due to its light, refreshing flavour.

Rich in fibre and natural sugars, ice apple acts as a gentle laxative, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Its high water content further aids in digestion and helps prevent dehydration, making it a digestive-friendly fruit for the summer season.

In Ayurveda, ice apple is known for its ability to pacify Pitta dosha, which is associated with excess body heat. Consuming ice apple can help alleviate ailments like acidity, skin rashes, and heat stroke by naturally cooling the body and promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.

As summer continues to intensify, incorporating ice apple into your diet can be a refreshing and healthful way to stay cool while benefiting from its nutrient-rich profile. Whether enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or in a chilled beverage, this seasonal fruit is a must-try for beating the heat naturally.

Ice Apple

Ice Apple Health benefits

Ice Apple Cooling Benefits

Ayurveda cooling agent

As the scorching sun takes over the skies, people are trying every remedy to keep themselves cool and refreshed. Many are turning to natural fruits and vegetables to beat the summer heat. One such fruit is the ice apple or Tadgoda. This lesser-known tropical fruit of the palmyra palm tree is perfect to beat the summer heat. Ice apples have a brown ice which needs to be peeled to extract their translucent and sweet pulp. Ice apple looks similar to litchi fruit and tastes slightly sweeter. They are a low-calorie fruit and are rich in calcium and phytonutrients, apart from sodium and potassium. Tadgola or ice apple helps cool the body, maintains electrolyte balance and works as a remedy for stomach ailments.As the temperature soars, staying cool and hydrated becomes essential, and one fruit that stands out for its natural cooling properties is the ice apple. With its translucent, jelly-like texture and refreshing taste, ice apple is a seasonal fruit that not only quenches thirst but also offers a range of health benefits.Natural Hydration And Cooling EffectIce apple is composed of approximately 95 per cent water, making it a natural coolant that effectively replenishes fluids lost through sweating during the hot summer months. Its rich mineral content, including potassium and magnesium, helps maintain the body’s electrolyte balance, preventing fatigue and promoting overall well-being.Nutritional PowerhouseThis low-calorie fruit is packed with dietary fibre, aiding digestion and preventing constipation, a common issue exacerbated by heat. Additionally, ice apple is a source of essential vitamins such as vitamin C and B-complex, which strengthen the immune system and boost energy levels. Its low fat and calorie content make it an ideal choice for those looking to shed extra pounds without compromising on nutrition.Refreshing Taste and TextureThe subtle sweetness and juicy, melt-in-the-mouth texture of ice apple make it a delightful summer treat. Whether consumed as is or chilled, it provides an instant cooling sensation that is particularly satisfying on a hot day. It is a favorite among both children and adults due to its light, refreshing flavour.Gut-Friendly BenefitsRich in fibre and natural sugars, ice apple acts as a gentle laxative, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Its high water content further aids in digestion and helps prevent dehydration, making it a digestive-friendly fruit for the summer season.Ayurvedic PerspectiveIn Ayurveda, ice apple is known for its ability to pacify Pitta dosha, which is associated with excess body heat. Consuming ice apple can help alleviate ailments like acidity, skin rashes, and heat stroke by naturally cooling the body and promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.As summer continues to intensify, incorporating ice apple into your diet can be a refreshing and healthful way to stay cool while benefiting from its nutrient-rich profile. Whether enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or in a chilled beverage, this seasonal fruit is a must-try for beating the heat naturally.

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