Dr. Eric Berg Explains WHY You Will NEVER Want Sugar Again After Watching This

What does SUGAR do to your body?

Sugar can have various effects on the body when consumed in excessive amounts. Here are some ways sugar can impact your health:

1. Weight gain: Consuming sugary foods and beverages can contribute to weight gain and obesity. Sugary foods are often high in calories but low in nutrients, and excessive calorie intake can lead to an imbalance in energy and result in weight gain.
2. Increased risk of chronic diseases: A diet high in added sugars has been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. Consuming too much sugar can lead to insulin resistance, where the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, resulting in high blood sugar levels and an increased risk of developing diabetes.
3. Tooth decay: Sugar promotes the growth of bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Bacteria feed on the sugars left on the teeth, producing acids that erode the tooth enamel over time.
4. Negative impact on heart health: High sugar intake has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Excess sugar consumption can contribute to elevated triglyceride levels, increased blood pressure, inflammation, and obesity, all of which are risk factors for heart disease.
5. Energy fluctuations and cravings: Consuming sugary foods and beverages can cause rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, leading to energy fluctuations and cravings for more sugar. This can create a cycle of overconsumption and make it challenging to maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.
6. Nutritional deficiencies: A diet high in sugar often means a decreased intake of nutrient-dense foods. Sugary foods are typically low in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are necessary for optimal health. Overconsumption of sugar can displace more nutritious foods from the diet, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies.

It’s important to note that not all sugars are created equal. Natural sugars found in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products are accompanied by essential nutrients and fiber, making them a healthier choice compared to added sugars found in processed foods and beverages. Moderation and mindful consumption of sugar are key to maintaining a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

What’s the difference between Glucose vs Fructose?

Glucose and fructose are both simple sugars, also known as monosaccharides, but they have different chemical structures and behave differently in the body. Here are the key differences between glucose and fructose:

1. Chemical structure: Glucose and fructose have the same number of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms, but their arrangement differs. Glucose is a six-carbon sugar, while fructose is a five-carbon sugar.
2. Occurrence: Glucose is found naturally in various foods such as fruits, vegetables, and grains. It is also the primary sugar found in the bloodstream and serves as the main source of energy for the body. Fructose is naturally occurring in fruits, honey, and some vegetables. It is often added as a sweetener to processed foods and beverages in the form of high-fructose corn syrup.
3. Absorption and metabolism: Glucose is directly absorbed into the bloodstream through the intestinal wall, where it is transported to cells throughout the body. It is readily metabolized by cells to produce energy or stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles for later use. Fructose, on the other hand, is metabolized differently. It is primarily metabolized in the liver, where it is converted into glucose, glycogen, or triglycerides (a type of fat) for energy storage.
4. Blood sugar response: Glucose has a significant impact on blood sugar levels because it is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. When consumed, it raises blood sugar levels, stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas to help cells absorb glucose and lower blood sugar levels. Fructose, however, has a lower glycemic index and does not cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. It is metabolized differently, and its consumption does not elicit the same insulin response as glucose.
5. Taste and sweetness: Glucose is less sweet compared to fructose. Fructose is the sweetest naturally occurring sugar and is often used as a sweetener in processed foods and beverages due to its intense sweetness.

While both glucose and fructose are sugars, excessive consumption of fructose, especially in the form of added sugars, has been associated with adverse health effects such as weight gain, increased risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. It is important to consume sugars, including fructose, in moderation and prioritize whole foods that contain naturally occurring sugars along with other essential nutrients.

What is Mitochondria?

Mitochondria are small, specialized structures found in most cells of the body. They are often referred to as the “powerhouses” of the cell because their main function is to generate energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through a process called cellular respiration.

Here are some key features and functions of mitochondria:

1. Structure: Mitochondria have an outer membrane and an inner membrane, which is folded into numerous structures called cristae. The inner membrane encloses a gel-like substance called the matrix. These structures provide a large surface area for various biochemical reactions to take place.
2. Energy production: The primary function of mitochondria is to produce ATP, which is the main energy currency of the cell. ATP synthesis occurs through a series of complex chemical reactions in a process called oxidative phosphorylation. This process involves the transfer of electrons from molecules derived from nutrients to the electron transport chain located in the inner membrane of the mitochondria. The energy released from this electron transfer is used to generate ATP.
3. Metabolism and nutrient breakdown: Mitochondria are involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They play a crucial role in breaking down these nutrients into smaller molecules that can be used as fuel for ATP production. This process occurs in the matrix of the mitochondria and is known as the citric acid cycle or Krebs cycle.
4. Calcium regulation: Mitochondria are also involved in regulating calcium levels within the cell. They can take up and release calcium ions, which is important for various cellular processes such as muscle contraction, cell signaling, and cell death.
5. Apoptosis (cell death): Mitochondria play a role in programmed cell death, known as apoptosis. They release certain proteins that trigger a cascade of events leading to cell death. This process is important for removing damaged or unwanted cells in the body.

Mitochondria are essential for the proper functioning of cells and contribute to various physiological processes in the body. They are particularly abundant in cells that have high energy demands, such as muscle cells, neurons, and liver cells.

What is the KETO diet?

The ketogenic diet, often referred to as the “keto diet,” is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that has gained popularity for its potential benefits in weight loss and certain health conditions. The main principle of the keto diet is to drastically reduce carbohydrate intake and replace it with fat, which shifts the body’s metabolism into a state called ketosis.

Here are the key features and principles of the ketogenic diet:

1. Low-carbohydrate intake: The keto diet involves severely restricting carbohydrate consumption. Typically, carbohydrates are limited to around 20-50 grams per day, which is significantly lower than the amount consumed in a typical diet. This restriction aims to deplete the body’s stored glucose (glycogen) and forces it to find alternative fuel sources.
2. High fat intake: To compensate for the reduced carbohydrates, the keto diet emphasizes consuming high amounts of healthy fats. Approximately 70-80% of daily calories come from fats, such as avocados, nuts and seeds, oils, butter, and fatty cuts of meat. The increased fat intake provides the body with a new primary source of energy.
3. Moderate protein consumption: Protein intake is moderate on the keto diet, making up around 20-25% of daily calories. Sources of protein can include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and plant-based options. It’s important to note that excessive protein intake can potentially interfere with the state of ketosis, so moderation is key.
4. Ketosis: By severely restricting carbohydrates and increasing fat intake, the body enters a state of ketosis. In ketosis, the liver produces ketones from fat, which become the primary fuel source for the body, including the brain. Ketones are molecules that are produced when there is limited glucose available for energy.
5. Potential benefits: The ketogenic diet has been associated with various potential benefits. These include weight loss, improved blood sugar control, reduced appetite, increased mental clarity and focus, and potential benefits for certain medical conditions such as epilepsy and some neurological disorders. However, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and potential risks of the diet.
6. Potential challenges: Following the keto diet can be challenging for some individuals. It requires careful planning and monitoring of macronutrient intake, as well as potential adjustments to medication dosages for those with certain medical conditions. The initial transition to ketosis may also cause temporary side effects, often referred to as the “keto flu,” which can include fatigue, headache, nausea, and irritability.

It’s important to note that the ketogenic diet may not be suitable for everyone, and it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes. They can provide personalized guidance and help determine if the keto diet is appropriate for your individual needs and goals.