Khaberni - Managing blood sugar levels raises a common question: Is the problem in the sugar itself or in the total calories? Recent evidence suggests that each has a different role.
In this context, a report on "Verywell Health" indicates that sugar is the most impactful factor on the immediate rise in blood sugar levels after eating, while calories play a bigger role over the long term.
Studies show that simple sugars are digested quickly, leading to sharp increases in glucose levels, especially when consumed in the form of beverages or processed foods.
Immediate Impact versus Cumulative Effect
According to experts, calories do not raise blood sugar directly, but they affect weight and insulin sensitivity over time, which may increase the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Moreover, excessive calories lead to the accumulation of fat, especially around the stomach area, a factor associated with the body's impaired ability to regulate sugar.
On the other hand, not all sugar sources are equal. The natural sugars found in fruits come with fiber, which slows their absorption and reduces their impact compared to added sugars.
The data indicate that focusing on just one element may be misleading, as the balance between reducing added sugars and managing calories is the most effective approach.
Food quality also plays an important role, as fiber, protein, and healthy fats help slow the absorption of sugar and maintain stable levels.
Recent guidelines recommend focusing on an integrated dietary pattern rather than calculating elements separately, paying attention to portion size and carbohydrate quality. Ultimately, the solution lies in creating balanced meals that combine quality ingredients and moderate quantity, instead of focusing on one factor alone.
