More Sugar Danger
A sweet tooth may spell trouble for our health on a cellular level.
Although overconsumption of added sugars is known to contribute to a host of health woes, including obesity and heart disease, some mechanisms behind the link have remained elusive. Now, a team of U.S. researchers has published findings in Cell Reports showing more sugar danger: Surplus sugar may cause our cellular power plantsโcalled mitochondriaโto become less efficient, reducing their energy output. When there is too much glucose in cells, which can happen from high sugar consumption, the lipid profile of the mitochondrial membrane can change, leading to a loss of optimal functioning.
See also: Another Sugar Shock
Matthew Kadey, MS, RD
Matthew Kadey, MS, RD, is a James Beard Awardโwinning food journalist, dietitian and author of the cookbook Rocket Fuel: Power-Packed Food for Sport + Adventure (VeloPress 2016). He has written for dozens of magazines, including Runnerโs World, Menโs Health, Shape, Menโs Fitness and Muscle and Fitness.