Refined Sugar vs Natural Sugar – Refined sugar is known to have a higher level of purity compared to natural sugar.

Even so, that doesn’t mean this type of sugar is healthier. To find out more about refined sugar and how it differs from natural sugar, let’s take a look at the following discussion.

You may often find the term refined sugar on the packaging of food or beverage products, such as ice cream, cookies, or soda.

Refined Sugar vs Natural Sugar

Refined sugar is sugar derived from natural sources such as corn or beets. In the manufacturing process, refined sugar will go through a long refining and processing process to produce pure sugar.

The process is also done to make it easier to be packaged or added to certain foods and drinks. Some of the examples of refined sugar are:

Corn syrup
High-fructose corn syrup
Granulated sugar (also known as regular or white sugar)
Brown sugar
Coconut palm sugar

Based on how it is obtained, refined sugar can be said to be lower in nutrients because it only contains pure sugar and has no fiber, vitamins, minerals, or protein.

In addition, this sugar is usually in packaged foods or drinks, which are sometimes high in salt and saturated fat as well such as:

Candy
Cake
Ice cream
Cookies
Juice
Sports drinks
Energy drinks

Natural sugars, on the other hand, are sweeteners that are already present in minimally processed foods, such as sugar in fruit, honey, or milk.

Although obtained from different sources, refined sugar and natural sugar will actually be processed in the same way in the body and become the same substance.

However, consumption of natural sugars is usually in conjunction with other nutrients.

For example, fruits contain not only sugar but also fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Meanwhile, milk also contains protein and vitamins.

Also Read: “5 Health Benefits of Sugar“

Health Risk of Consuming Refined Sugar Excessively

Refined sugar contained in packaged foods or beverages does not immediately cause health problems after consumption.

However, consuming too much and too often can have a negative impact on the body, such as:

1. Malnutrition

People who frequently consume sugary foods and drinks tend to skip nutritious foods, putting them at risk of malnutrition.

2. Increased Triglyceride Levels

Consuming too much sugar can increase triglyceride levels in the blood vessels and fatty tissues, increasing the risk of heart problems.

Triglycerides are a type of fat that can be found in the blood and fat cells.

The body gets most of its triglycerides from food, such as butter, cooking oil, fatty meats, cheese and cream. Triglycerides can also come from sugar and alcohol.

3. Obesity

Consumption of foods or drinks that are high in sugar also risks causing a buildup of calories that result in obesity or being overweight.

4. Diabetes

Apart from obesity, excessive sugar consumption also poses a risk of elevated blood sugar levels. If left unchecked, this can lead to diabetes.

Over time, high blood glucose levels can damage the body’s organs. Possible long-term effects include damage to blood vessels, which can lead to heart attack, stroke, and problems with the kidneys, eyes, gums, feet and nerves.

5. Tooth Damage

Sugar can cause a buildup of bacteria that can increase your risk of cavities, especially if you don’t maintain good dental hygiene.

With that being said, it can be concluded that natural sugar is way better than refined one.

This is because foods with natural sugar often contain other ingredients like protein and fiber to help lower blood sugar.

On top of that, foods high in natural sugar such as fruits and vegetables also contain antioxidants and other important vitamins and minerals.

Also Read: “6 Types of Natural Sugar“

So there you have it! The complete explanation about refined sugar vs natural sugar along with the risks of excessively consuming refined sugar.

Refined Sugar vs Natural Sugar: How Are They Different?

Refined Sugar vs Natural Sugar