Just A Spoon Full of Sugar…

Can sugar suppress your immune system? That was a question studied by researchers at Loma Linda University back in the 1970’s. Half the volunteers in the study were given 100 grams of sugar (approximately the amount in a liter of regular soda), and the other half fasted or had a snack without sugar. Then researchers drew blood from all the volunteers and mixed in some bacteria. The results: white blood cells from the blood samples of those volunteers who ingested the large dose of sugar destroyed less bacteria than the other subjects in the test group.

Though many doctors have heard this claim, most believe there’s just not enough research available to prove that any one food substance can make a person more vulnerable to infections. Today, with the widespread fear of the swine flu virus, many people are looking for ways to protect themselves and their families. This old study has resurfaced and people are suddenly asking, “Can large doses of sugar really weaken my immune system?”

Although doctors and nutritionists can’t agree on the answer to that question, they do agree on one thing: Eating a balanced diet of protein, carbs, fruits and vegetables is the key to good health… and the foundation of the Chris Powell Reshape the Nation program.

Comments for "Just A Spoon Full of Sugar…"

1. Sugar’s an immune depressant, as far as I know. It inhibits the cells’ ability to absorb Vitamin C.

   Posted by Stephanie from Boulder, CO on 02/02 at 11:17 AM

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