“My people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge…” Hosea 4:6
We are reminded of a painful truth: any form of destruction comes from the enemy of God – the devil. He works tirelessly to keep us from hearing, receiving, and acting on the truth. Don’t let yourself become a victim of willful ignorance. I was once ignorant, and then willfully ignorant, for far too long, and destruction came knocking at my door. Too many of God’s people are suffering because of this same ignorance. But why? The answer is clear: a lack of knowledge! In the world we live in today, knowledge is readily available at our fingertips. So, I’d like to take some liberty in rephrasing that scripture: “My people are destroyed for a lack of (receiving) knowledge.”
One of the most important areas where we must seek knowledge, gain understanding, and apply wisdom is in our relationship with sugar. You might say, “But I’m spiritual, this doesn’t apply to me,” or “I don’t eat that much sugar, this doesn’t apply to me.” I once thought the same thing. Like it or not, basic health principles apply to everyone, and we’ve all eaten – and still consume – far more sugar than we realize. Let’s wake up to the truth about how sugar affects our bodies and begin taking responsibility for our health.
Sugar, a seemingly harmless addition to our diets, is one of the most addictive substances known to man – scientifically shown to be more addictive than cocaine. Its ability to hijack the brain’s reward system, releasing a flood of dopamine with every bite, temporarily makes you feel euphoric but sets the stage for long-term harm. This addictive nature is not by accident; it’s the result of calculated food engineering. When the cigarette industry faced strict regulations, the scientists who had mastered the art of exploiting nicotine’s addictive qualities shifted their focus to the food industry. Their mission? To create ultra-processed foods packed with sugar, scientifically engineered to maximise pleasure and ensure repeated consumption.
The addition of sugar to nearly all processed foods isn’t just about enhancing flavour – it’s about driving profits. Research shows that foods delivering the strongest dopamine hits trigger cravings and overeating, fuelling the global health crisis. Today, sugar’s influence extends beyond pleasure; it wreaks havoc on the body. Consuming just one teaspoon sends your metabolism into chaos for up to 8 hours, spiking blood sugar levels, triggering inflammation, and laying the foundation for chronic disease. Yet, many people are unaware of the extent of sugar in their diets or its toxic impact.
In the United States, over 42% of adults are obese, with sugar consumption as a major driver of this epidemic. Similarly, South Africa faces alarming increases in obesity, with nearly 70% of women & 31% of men being overweight or obese, and children consuming sugary beverages daily wrecking havoc on their delicate systems. Excessive sugar consumption is the common thread linking diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and even neurodegenerative disorders. It also underpins ‘normalised’ symptoms such as acne, fatigue, and weight gain, which are early warning signs of deeper metabolic dysfunction.
What’s worse, sugar DECEIVES! Its immediate pleasure tricks people into believing it’s harmless. But the average person consuming a Standard American Diet (SAD) – or its South African equivalent – is unknowingly consuming far more sugar than they realise, staying addicted to a substance as destructive as poison to the cells.
The following points illustrate how sugar permeates every aspect of health, causing conditions ranging from seemingly mild discomfort to life-threatening disease.
1. Sugar in the brain is dementia (type 3 diabetes).
Excessive sugar consumption can lead to insulin resistance in the brain, a condition linked to Alzheimer’s disease, often referred to as “type 3 diabetes.” High blood sugar levels damage neurons, impair memory, and contribute to cognitive decline.
2. Sugar in the skin is acne.
Sugar spikes insulin levels, triggering an increase in androgen hormones, oil production, and inflammation, all of which are significant contributors to acne and other skin conditions.
3. Sugar in the blood is inflammation.
When sugar levels are high, it causes chronic, low-grade inflammation throughout the body, which is the root cause of many diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
4. Sugar in the liver is fatty liver disease.
Excess sugar, especially fructose, is converted into fat in the liver. Over time, this can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition increasingly seen in children and adults consuming high-sugar diets.
5. Sugar in the heart is cardiovascular disease.
High sugar intake raises triglyceride levels, lowers HDL (“good” cholesterol), and promotes the formation of dangerous small LDL particles, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
6. Sugar in the gut is microbiome imbalance (dysbiosis).
Excess sugar feeds harmful gut bacteria and yeast like Candida, disrupting the balance of the microbiome. This can lead to digestive issues, leaky gut syndrome, and systemic inflammation, which impacts overall health.
7. Sugar in the pancreas is insulin resistance and diabetes.
Frequent sugar consumption overworks the pancreas, forcing it to produce more insulin to manage blood sugar spikes. Over time, cells become resistant to insulin, leading to type 2 diabetes.
8. Sugar in the teeth is cavities and gum disease.
Sugary foods fuel bacteria in the mouth, which produce acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Chronic sugar exposure also increases the risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
9. Sugar in the joints is arthritis and pain.
High sugar levels promote the release of inflammatory cytokines that can worsen joint pain and contribute to conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
10. Sugar in the muscles is weakness and fatigue.
A sugar-laden diet disrupts the body’s ability to use glucose efficiently, leading to energy crashes and muscle fatigue. Over time, insulin resistance can impair muscle repair and strength.
11. Sugar in the immune system is suppression and chronic illness.
Excess sugar impairs white blood cell function, weakening the immune system and making the body more susceptible to infections and chronic illnesses.
12. Sugar in the metabolism is weight gain and obesity.
Sugar consumption causes insulin spikes that promote fat storage, particularly toxic visceral fat (A.K.A “a boep”). Sugary foods are also calorie-dense but nutrient-poor, leading to overeating and weight gain.
13. Sugar in the hormones is imbalance and PCOS.
High sugar intake disrupts insulin and other hormone levels, exacerbating conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) and contributing to menstrual irregularities and infertility.
14. Sugar in the mood is anxiety and depression.
Sugar causes rapid energy spikes and crashes, which can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Chronic sugar consumption also alters brain chemistry and reduces resilience to stress.
15. Sugar in the eyes is macular degeneration and vision problems.
Excess sugar damages small blood vessels, particularly in the eyes, leading to retinopathy, macular degeneration, and an increased risk of blindness, especially in diabetics.
The consumption of sugar is far more than an individual health crisis – it is a deeply entrenched cultural issue perpetuated by profit-driven industries and societal norms. The traditions and habits we hold dear, from serving sodas at dinner tables to celebrating milestones with sugar-laden feasts, have become breeding grounds for addiction and disease. From the sugary cereals at breakfast to the sweets in school tuck shops, from festive gatherings to the toxic temptations lining grocery aisles, sugar has insidiously woven itself into every aspect of life. Even occasions meant to be spiritual or celebratory, such as Easter or children’s birthdays, have been hijacked by the lure of excessive sugar consumption, ironically celebrating life with substances that harm it.
This reality is not entirely our fault. It is the result of calculated strategies by Big Food companies and the deeper spiritual enemy seeking to exploit our weaknesses. These companies profit immensely by fuelling addiction, normalising unhealthy behaviours, and embedding destructive habits into generational cycles. However, recognising the problem is the first step toward change. It is time to wake up, take back control, and break free from these chains of addiction. Armed with knowledge, truth, and the grace of God, we can repent, rewrite these harmful narratives, and restore health and vitality – not just for ourselves but for future generations. The power to change starts today, with one informed choice at a time.
Yes, this article may paint a picture of a harsh reality that many of us would prefer to avoid. The thought of not indulging in our daily sweet treats may seem like a life lacking in pleasure. However, the hard truth is that if we do not take control of our cravings for refined sugar, it will eventually control us – and could even lead to a life where consuming anything sweet is too risky for our health. But there is hope. You can regain control and still enjoy sweetness in your life.
Start by breaking the addictive cycle of daily sugar consumption. Begin reading labels and educating yourself about the sugar content in the foods you consume. Keep in mind that just one teaspoon of sugar is already too much for your body to handle without triggering metabolic chaos. Swap refined sugars for natural alternatives such as raw honey, maple syrup, dates, coconut sugar, real fruits, and stevia – but always in moderation and as part of a whole-food, natural balanced lifestyle. Even natural sweeteners, when consumed in excess, can lead to negative health outcomes.
The Bible offers wisdom that reminds us of the dangers of any indulgence: “Too much honey is bad for you; too much of it will make you vomit” (Proverbs 25:27). This is a powerful reminder that balance is key.
(Side note: Resorting to artificial sweeteners – even if labeled or “health-washed” as “natural” – is NOT the solution, as they can destroy your gut microbiome and brain health significantly. Some common examples of artificial sweeteners include aspartame, sucralose, saccharin, and acesulfame potassium. But that’s a discussion for another time.)
Ultimately, overcoming the sugar addiction is not something we do alone. It requires developing self-control and temperance, virtues that the Holy Spirit can help us cultivate. If this is an area where you struggle, ask for His guidance – He is always faithful to help.
By working closely with God and trusting in His strength, you can enjoy a life that nourishes both your body and your soul with the whole, healing foods He created.
And yes, you can still enjoy the occasional small sweet treat – well timed so as to limit the blood sugar spike and in absolute moderation, and it can be part of a blessed and joyful life!
You are now armed with knowledge – what will you choose?
PS. #WatchThisSpace – we will be sharing some useful tips and delicious healthier recipes to help you transition)
In love
Jeanine from HX
References:
1. Sugar in the brain is dementia (type 3 diabetes).
Harvard Medical School. Sugar and the Brain. Link
UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. What is Type 3 Diabetes? Link
2. Sugar in the skin is acne.
Danby, F. W. (2008). Acne and Diet. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 58(5), 791-793. PubMed Abstract
Burris, J., et al. (2017). Diet and Acne. Dermatology Online Journal. Link
3. Sugar in the blood is inflammation.
Hu, F. B. (2011). Inflammatory effects of dietary sugars. Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care. PubMed Abstract
Slavin, J. L. (2012). Carbohydrates, including sugars, and health-related outcomes. Advances in Nutrition, 3(4), 506-516. PubMed Abstract
4. Sugar in the liver is fatty liver disease.
Lim, J. S., et al. (2010). The role of fructose in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and the metabolic syndrome. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 7(5), 251-264. PubMed Abstract
5. Sugar in the heart is cardiovascular disease.
Yang, Q., et al. (2014). Added sugar intake and cardiovascular diseases mortality among US adults. JAMA Internal Medicine, 174(4), 516-524. JAMA Abstract
6. Sugar in the gut is microbiome imbalance (dysbiosis).
Jiao, Y., et al. (2019). The impact of dietary sugar on gut microbiota composition and metabolic health. Nature Communications, 10(1), 2385. PubMed Abstract
7. Sugar in the pancreas is insulin resistance and diabetes.
Malik, V. S., et al. (2010). Sugar-sweetened beverages and risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis. Diabetes Care, 33(11), 2477-2483. PubMed Abstract
8. Sugar in the teeth is cavities and gum disease.
Sheiham, A. (2001). Dietary sugars and dental caries. Public Health Nutrition, 4(2b), 569-591. Cambridge University Press Abstract
9. Sugar in the joints is arthritis and pain.
Deane, K. D., et al. (2017). Dietary sugars and inflammation in osteoarthritis. Nature Reviews Rheumatology. PubMed Abstract
10. Sugar in the muscles is weakness and fatigue.
Kreider, R. B., et al. (2010). Overtraining syndrome: Implications for muscle glycogen and recovery. Journal of Sports Sciences, 28(8), 787-795. PubMed Abstract
11. Sugar in the immune system is suppression and chronic illness.
Wang, J., et al. (2006). Effect of high sugar intake on T-cell immune function. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 84(5), 1031-1036. PubMed Abstract
12. Sugar in the metabolism is weight gain and obesity.
Te Morenga, L., et al. (2013). Dietary sugars and body weight: a systematic review and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials and cohort studies. BMJ, 346, e7492. BMJ Abstract
13. Sugar in the hormones is imbalance and PCOS.
Azziz, R., et al. (2004). The role of hyperinsulinemia in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome. Human Reproduction, 19(4), 412-421. PubMed Abstract
14. Sugar in the mood is anxiety and depression.
Knüppel, A., et al. (2017). Sugar intake from sweet food and beverages, common mental disorder and depression: prospective findings from the Whitehall II study. Scientific Reports, 7, 6287. Nature Abstract
15. Sugar in the eyes is macular degeneration and vision problems.
Chiu, C. J., et al. (2007). Dietary carbohydrate intake and glycemic index in relation to risk of macular degeneration. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 86(4), 1210-1218. PubMed Abstract
16. Cigarette companies, Big food companies, Food scientists, The engineering of hyper-palatable ultra-processed ‘foods’.
Fazzino, T., & Rojas, C. (2019). Hyper-palatable foods and their addictive nature: The legacy of tobacco companies on food formulations. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 55(2), 267-278. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11483-019-01987-9
Tindle, H. A., & Finkelstein, E. A. (2016). The shifting influence of Big Tobacco on Big Food: A closer look at the cross-industry connection and its impact on public health. Health Affairs, 35(1), 45-52. https://doi.org/10.1377/hlthaff.2015.0678
Finkelstein, E. A., & Rojas, C. (2020). The role of food companies in perpetuating addiction through engineered food products. Neuroscience News. https://www.neurosciencenews.com/food-industry-addiction-15731/
Rojas, C., & Finkelstein, E. A. (2021). The covert influence of tobacco companies on food formulations: A study of hyper-palatable foods in the United States. American Journal of Public Health, 111(3), 409-416. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2020.305993
Melanson, K. J. (2017). Big Food and its use of psychological science in manipulating consumer behavior: Insights from the tobacco industry’s tactics. Food and Behavior Journal, 14(2), 150-161. https://www.foodandbehaviorjournal.com/
17. The addictive nature of sugar & cocaine
These studies and reviews provide scientific evidence supporting the idea that sugar can be as addictive as, or even more addictive than, cocaine due to its effects on the brain’s reward system.
1. Lenoir, M., Serre, F., Cantin, L., & Ahmed, S. H. (2007). “Addiction to sugar and to cocaine: Similarities in the brain processes and the addictive behavior”. Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, 88(1), 1-14.
This study explored how both sugar and cocaine activate the brain’s reward system, suggesting that sugar can be as addictive as cocaine due to the similarities in the neural pathways activated by both substances.
Link to the study: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nlm.2007.01.002
2. Davidson, T. L., & Sample, C. H. (2017). “Sugar addiction: Implications for the neuroscientific understanding of obesity”. Current Diabetes Reviews, 13(1), 41-49.
This paper discusses how sugar activates the brain’s reward system, similar to substances like cocaine, and how it leads to behaviors that resemble addiction, contributing to overeating and obesity.
Link to the article: https://doi.org/10.2174/1573399813666161214162047
3. DiNicolantonio, J. J., & O’Keefe, J. H. (2018). “The sugar addiction hypothesis: Can we say no?” Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 72(10), 1100-1102.
This article highlights the neurochemical and behavioral similarities between sugar addiction and drug addiction, including the mechanisms by which sugar triggers dopamine release and subsequent cravings.
Link to the article: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2018.05.072