Metabolic syndrome is a clustering of at least three of the five following medical conditions: abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high serum triglycerides, and low serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Metabolic syndrome is associated with the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. In the U.S., about 25% of the adult population has metabolic syndrome, a proportion increasing with age, particularly among racial and ethnic minorities.Insulin resistance, ...

metabolic syndrome

Powerful-herbs-for-weight-loss-and-detoxification

Powerful herbs for weight loss and detoxification 

Powerful-herbs-for-weight-loss-and-detoxification_0_0

Fenugreek-(Trigonella)

Fenugreek (Trigonella) 

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Fenugreek is a perennial herbaceous plant that is a common household spice derived from Trigonella foenum-graecum - a plant belonging to the Fabaceae family&nbsp; <a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14762" target="_blank" data-ref="Trigonella" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp; Several studies have found that fenugreek can help control appetite and reduce food intake to aid weight loss.

Fenugreek-(Trigonella)_0_1

One study in 18 people showed that adding 8 grams of fiber from fenugeek has increased feelings of satiety and reduced hunger and food intake, compared to the control group. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.2795" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[Ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

Fenugreek-(Trigonella)_0_2

Another small study found that taking fenugreek seed extract reduced daily fat intake by 17% compared to placebo. This leads to a lower number of calories consumed during the day. &nbsp;<a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00228-009-0733-5?error=cookies_not_supported&amp;code=f1f9b95a-1e34-4ae7-bb79-177b82774eaa" target="_blank" data-ref="A fenugreek seed extract selectively reduces spontaneous fat consumption in healthy volunteers - European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp; Animal studies looked at the inhibitory effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum (AqE-TFG) aqueous seed extract on fat accumulation and dyslipidemia in obese rats. Therapy with AqE-TFG resulted in a significant decrease in body weight gain, body mass index (BM), white fat weight (WAT), blood sugar, serum insulin, lipids, leptin, lipasis and apolipoprotein-B levels and an increase in adiponectin levels. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4020548/#abstract-1title" target="_blank" data-ref="Fenugreek Seed Extract Inhibit Fat Accumulation and Ameliorates Dyslipidemia in High Fat Diet-Induced Obese Rats" rel="noopener">[Ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;

Cayenne-pepper-(Capsicum-annuum)

Cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum)

Cayenne-pepper-(Capsicum-annuum)_0_0

Cayenne pepper is a type of pepper, used mostly to give a spicy taste to many dishes. Contains the compound capsaicin, which gives cayenne pepper its characteristic spicy taste and provides many health benefits. Some research has shown that capsaicin can slightly boost metabolism, increasing the number of calories you burn during the day, thus helping you lose weight. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0031938410004063?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" data-ref="ScienceDirectScience DirectScienceDirect helpElsevierRELX Group" rel="noopener">[Ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;

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Ginger-(Zingiber-officinale)

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger-(Zingiber-officinale)_0_0

Ginger is a spice prepared from the root of the ginger plant Zingiber officinale. Often used in folk medicine as a natural remedy for a wide variety of diseases, some research suggests that ginger can also aid weight loss.

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A review of 14 studies in humans shows that ginger supplements significantly reduce both body weight and abdominal fat. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/action/cookieAbsent" target="_blank" data-ref="" rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a>&nbsp; Aqueous extract of Z. officinale Roscoe can inhibit the intestinal absorption of dietary fats by inhibiting their hydrolysis in the amines. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Antiobesity_actions_of_Zingiber_officinale_Roscoe_15684576" target="_blank" data-ref="[Antiobesity actions of Zingiber officinale Roscoe]. | Билкови и природни лекарства" rel="noopener">[Ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;

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Oregano-(Origanum-vulgare-)

Oregano (Origanum vulgare )

Oregano-(Origanum-vulgare-)_0_0

Oregano is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the same family of plants as mint, basil, thyme, rosemary and sage. It contains carvacol, a powerful compound that can help increase weight loss. [ref.8]

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A study in mice on a high-fat diet that either contained carvacol or not found that those who received carvacol gained significantly less body weight and body fat than the control group.&nbsp;

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It has also been found that carvacol supplements directly affect some of the specific genes and proteins that control body fat synthesis. Several preclinical studies prove that representatives of the genus Origanum have pharmacological potential such as antiproliferative or anticancer, antihyperlypidemic, anti-inflammatory, phosprotective, cardioprotective and anti-obesity effects. [ref.9]

Ginseng-(Panax)

Ginseng (Panax) 

Ginseng-(Panax)_0_0

Ginseng is a plant with beneficial health properties, which is&nbsp; a major product in traditional Chinese medicine. There are various types of ginseng, for examples saponins that have antidiabetic, as well as antihyperglycemic effects in animals,&nbsp; and they have been found to provide antidiabetic effects. [ref.10]

Caralluma-fimbriata

Caralluma fimbriata

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Caralluma Fimbriata is an herb that is often included in various formulas for weight loss. It is believed to work by raising levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that directly affects appetite. [ref.11] It also helps to suppress appetite and combat obesity. [ref.12]

Turmeric-(Curcuma-Longa)

Turmeric (Curcuma Longa)

Turmeric-(Curcuma-Longa)_0_0

Turmeric is a spice that is well-known for its taste, vibrant color and powerful healing properties. Most of its health benefits are attributed to the presence of curcumin, a chemical that has been studied in detail for its effects on everything from inflammation to weight loss. A scientific review of randomized controlled trials shows that taking curcumin in patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders is associated with a significant decrease in BMI, weight and leptin levels. [ref.13]

Black-pepper-(Piper-nigrum)

Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Black-pepper-(Piper-nigrum)_0_0

Black pepper is a common spice in the household, obtained from the dried fruits of Piper nigrum. Black pepper contains a powerful compound called piperine, which provides both sharp taste and potential weight loss effects. [ref.14] More human studies are needed to prove the same effects with certainty.

Gymnema-Sylvestre

Gymnema Sylvestre

Gymnema-Sylvestre_0_0

Gymnema sylvestre is not so popular herb that is used as a natural way for reducing blood sugar levels. However, some research suggests it may also be beneficial for those who want to lose weight. Gimnema contains a compound called gimanemic acid, which can help reduce the perceived sweetness of foods to prevent the desire for sweet foods.&nbsp;

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The water-soluble fraction of Gymnema Sylvestre ethanol extract may be a useful intervention in the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus in mice, as described in "Protective Effect of Gymnema sylvestre Ethanol Extract on High Fat Diet-induced Obese Diabetic Wistar Rats." [ref.15]

Cinnamon-(Cinnamomum-Verum)

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum Verum)

Cinnamon-(Cinnamomum-Verum)_0_0

Cinnamon is an aromatic spice produced from the inner bark of trees of the genus Cinnamomum. It is rich in antioxidants and provides numerous health benefits. Some studies have even found that cinnamon can increase weight loss. Cinnamon can be particularly effective at stabilising blood sugar, and its control is at the heart of appetite management. [ref.16]

Cinnamon-(Cinnamomum-Verum)_0_1

Cinnamon can also reduce levels of certain digestive enzymes to slow the breakdown of carbohydrates, according to the data in the publication "Inhibitory activity of cinnamon bark species and their combination effect with acarbose against intestinal &alpha;-glucosidase and pancreatic &alpha;-amylase." [ref.17]

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Green-coffee-bean-extract

Green coffee bean extract

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Green coffee bean extract is often found in many weight loss products.

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The extract is made from coffee beans that are not roasted and are high in chlorogenic acid, which is believed to provide some weight loss support. One study found information that green coffee consumption significantly improved arterial elasticity and reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the healthy group included in the study. [ref.18]

Cumin-(Cuminum-cyminum)

Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)

Cumin-(Cuminum-cyminum)_0_0

Cumin is a spice prepared from the dried and ground seeds of Cuminum cyminum. [ref.19] Cumin is well known for its distinct walnut taste, but it also has valuable health benefits, including the potential to accelerate weight loss and fat burning.

Cardamom-(Elettaria-Cardamomum)

Cardamom (Elettaria Cardamomum)

Cardamom-(Elettaria-Cardamomum)_0_0

Cardamom is a highly valuable spice produced from the seeds of a ginger family plant. It is used all over the world for both cooking and baking, but can also aid weight loss. Several animal studies have shown that cardamom powder helps to reduce abdominal fat in a high-fat and carbohydrate-high diet [ref.20]&nbsp; For the action of cardamom in humans, more studies are needed to confirm the same positive effects.

Cardamom-(Elettaria-Cardamomum)_0_1

In addition to providing a pleasant aroma, and often a distinguished taste of your favorite dishes, many herbs and spices contribute to metabolism, enhance fat burning and promote a sense of satiety. These effects of herbs can be beneficial for anyone who wishes to reduce their weight. However, be careful - stick to no more than one tablespoon (14 grams) per day when using those herbs for dressing, and be sure to combine them with nutrient-rich wholefoods. If you have any major health conditions or if you are taking medicines, it is best to talk to your doctor before you start taking herbal supplements and products.

13 most powerful herbs for weight loss and detoxification 

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13 most powerful  herbs for weight loss and detoxification 

Бетина Цветкова

What-is-Calendula-and-where-does-it-come-from

What is Calendula and where does it come from

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Calendula, also known as Calendula officinalis, is a plant that has historically been used for many different diseases, mainly those affecting the skin, such as wound healing. The healing part of the plant is located in the beautiful, saturated colored orange and yellow flower. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/15100" target="_blank" data-ref="Calendula officinalis" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a> The flower petals of Calendula are rich in flavonoids &ndash; naturally occurring compounds found in vegetables and fruits &ndash; which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antithrombogenic, antidiabetic, anticancer and neuroprotective actions through various mechanisms of action in vitro and in animal models.

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Possible-uses-of-Calendula

Possible uses of Calendula 

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Calendula is used to treat various diseases affecting the skin, as well as infections and fungi. Research shows that Calendula can be effective in treating diaper rash, wounds, vaginal fungal infections and other skin diseases. Calendula is also used as a means of reducing pain and inflammation, therefore it cat act as a painkiller and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used as an aid in the treatment of cancer - specifically for side effects associated with radiotherapy.&nbsp;

Possible-uses-of-Calendula_1_1

The active ingredients of the flower of Calendula are naturally occurring chemicals, such as triterpene saponins (oleanolic acid glycosides), triterpene alcohols (&alpha;-, &beta;-amirins, faradiol) and flavonoids (ivercetin and isoramnetin). <a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Preparative_purification_of_the_major_anti_inflammatory_triterpenoid_esters_from_Marigold_Calendula_officinalis_12781802" target="_blank" data-ref="Preparative purification of the major anti-inflammatory triterpenoid esters from Marigold (Calendula officinalis). | Билкови и природни лекарства" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a> It is considered that the photoprotective effect of local gel formulations containing Calendula is associated with improving collagen synthesis in subepidermal connective tissue. There is also evidence that chemicals in Calendula enhance the growth of new tissue in wound healing and reduce inflammation. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Anti_inflammatory_anti_tumor_promoting_and_cytotoxic_activities_of_constituents_of_marigold_Calendula_officinalis_flowers_17190444" target="_blank" data-ref="Anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor-promoting, and cytotoxic activities of constituents of marigold (Calendula officinalis) flowers. | Билкови и природни лекарства" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

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Calendula extract and tea can have beneficial effects for seven aspects, as follows:

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rich in antioxidants &ndash; Antioxidants are useful compounds that neutralize the harmful effects of oxidative stress in the body and reduce the risk of a number of diseases. Calendula extract has several powerful antioxidants, including triterpenes, flavonoids, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25266574/" target="_blank" data-ref="Extracts from Calendula officinalis offer in vitro protection against H2 O2 induced oxidative stress cell killing of human skin cells - PubMed" rel="noopener">polyphenols and carotenoids</a>.&nbsp;[ref. 4]&nbsp; &nbsp;In addition, calendula extract can boast anti-inflammatory compounds, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF&alpha;). While inflammation is a normal bodily response, chronic inflammation is associated with a number of conditions, including obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19374166/" target="_blank" data-ref="Anti-inflammatory activity of flower extract of Calendula officinalis Linn. and its possible mechanism of action - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Can promote the healing of wounds and skin ulcers - Calendula extract, found in oils, ointments and tinctures, can be used topically to treat wounds and ulcers. You can also apply tea to your skin by a fabric compress or a spray bottle. However, there is no data on whether drinking tea from Calendula has the same effects. In vitro studies involving animals have shown that Calendula extract can regulate the expression of certain proteins that promote wound healing. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27426257/" target="_blank" data-ref="The Water Fraction of Calendula officinalis Hydroethanol Extract Stimulates In Vitro and In Vivo Proliferation of Dermal Fibroblasts in Wound Healing - PubMed" rel="noopener">[Ref. 6]</a>&nbsp; </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The antioxidant content of Calendula can provide antitumor effects - In vitro studies have shown that flavonoids and triterpene antioxidants of Calendula can fight leukemia, melanoma, cancer cells of the colon and pancreas. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22899374/" target="_blank" data-ref="Chamomile and marigold tea: chemical characterization and evaluation of anticancer activity - PubMed" rel="noopener">[Ref. 7]</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17190444/" target="_blank" data-ref="Anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor-promoting, and cytotoxic activities of constituents of marigold (Calendula officinalis) flowers - PubMed" rel="noopener">[Ref. 8]</a>&nbsp; However, there is no human studies to confirm the same effects.&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">May have antifungal and antimicrobial properties - Calendula extract is known for its antifungal and antimicrobial properties, confirmed in studies such as "Antimicrobial Activity of Calendula officinalis petal extracts against fungi", as well as in "Gram-negative and Gram-positive clinical pathogens"&nbsp; <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22789794/" target="_blank" data-ref="Antimicrobial activity of Calendula officinalis petal extracts against fungi, as well as Gram-negative and Gram-positive clinical pathogens - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 9]</a>&nbsp; and "Antibacterial and antiparasitic activity of oleanolic acid and its glycosides isolated from marigold (Calendula of ficinalis)". &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Antibacterial_and_antiparasitic_activity_of_oleanolic_acid_and_its_glycosides_isolated_from_marigold_Calendula_officinalis_18951335" target="_blank" data-ref="Antibacterial and antiparasitic activity of oleanolic acid and its glycosides isolated from marigold (Calendula officinalis). | Билкови и природни лекарства" rel="noopener">[Ref. 10]</a>&nbsp; </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Can be used to improve oral health, including oral diseases such as gingivitis.&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Calendula can improve skin health - Calendula extract is widely used in cosmetics, including in creams and ointments. Studies in both vitro and humans have shown that calendula extract can improve skin hydration and stimulate its firmness and elasticity, which can slow down signs of aging, therefore it has anti-ageing effect. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Calendula_extract_effects_on_mechanical_parameters_of_human_skin_21928714" target="_blank" data-ref="Calendula extract: effects on mechanical parameters of human skin. | Билкови и природни лекарства" rel="noopener">[ref. 11]</a>&nbsp; </li></ol>Many people claim that the Calendula has other applications, but few of them are supported by science so far. Here are these potential areas of action of Calendula:

Possible-uses-of-Calendula_1_5

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">It can regulate the menstrual cycle</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">It can work as a face tonic</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">It may improve heart health</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">It may relieve muscle fatigue </li></ul>

Side-effects-and-precautions-when-using-Calendula

Side effects and precautions when using Calendula 

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It is possible to have an allergic reaction when using products with a Calendula. Therefore, you need to test your skin in advance, applying a small amount of any product with Calendula before using it. People with allergies to other plants of the Asteraceae family, such as German Chamomile and Mountain arnica, may be more susceptible to an allergy to Calendula. In addition, it may be best to avoid products with Calendula during pregnancy to reduce the risk of miscarriage, given the purported effects of the herb on menstruation.

How-to-make-a-Calendula-tea---three-easy-recipes

How to make a Calendula tea - three easy recipes

🌼-Tea-of-fresh-colors-of-Calendula-🌼

🌼 Tea of fresh colors of Calendula 🌼

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Put a handful of fresh Calendula&nbsp;colors in a jar or kettle. Pour in boiling water and leave to soak for 3-4 minutes. Strain, add honey as desired and enjoy!

🌼-Tea-from-dried-Calendula-petals-🌼

🌼 Tea from dried Calendula petals 🌼

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If you buy herbal tea from the store, these are just petals of dried flowers. You can either dry the petals of the plant yourself, or buy the herb Calendula in bulk. Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried petals to a glass and pour with 1 cup of boiling water. Leave to soak for 3-4 minutes, add honey if desired, and enjoy.

🌼-Calendula-infusion-🌼

🌼 Calendula infusion 🌼

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If you want your Calendula to have powerful healing effect and a stronger taste, try the infusion. The infusion is created by letting the herbs soak in water for a longer period of time, usually overnight, in order to extract all minerals, aromatic oils, enzymes, vitamins, etc.

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Use 1-2 tablespoons of dried petals of Calendula (or 3-4 fresh colors) per glass of water. Add Calendula to a jar or kettle and pour in boiling water. Allow to infuse overnight before use.

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Calendula, a beautiful flowering plant, is full of beneficial plant compounds that can provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal and wound healing effects. It is usually taken as a herbal tea and used in various creams for topical use on the skin, but with caution in some people.

Calendula tea and extract - potential benefits, effects and contraindications

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Calendula tea and extract - potential benefits, effects and contrai

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Author: Elena Marinova, Master of Pharmacy

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Excessive use of sugars leads to an accumulation of excess weight, obesity, and often this unlocks serious diseases. Fortunately, the abundance of natural sweeteners allows full replacement of refined sugar, prevention of severe metabolic diseases and even support treatment if the disease is already present.

"Dosis-Sola-Facit-Venenum"---"Only-The-Dose-Makes-The-Poison"

"Dosis Sola Facit Venenum" - "Only The Dose Makes The Poison"

"Dosis-Sola-Facit-Venenum"---"Only-The-Dose-Makes-The-Poison"_0_0

You may have heard this sentiment from the famous Swiss doctor Paracels. He clarified that all substances are poisonous and "only the dose distinguishes poison from the drug".

"Dosis-Sola-Facit-Venenum"---"Only-The-Dose-Makes-The-Poison"_0_1

The interpretation of this sentiment shows that even substances that we consider useful can harm us if taken in large quantities. So it is with added sugar. It is present in everything we love - sweet temptations, juices and other drinks, pasta, but its excessive use can be very harmful to the body.

"Dosis-Sola-Facit-Venenum"---"Only-The-Dose-Makes-The-Poison"_0_2

Sugar is derived from sugar beet and sugar cane. After a process of refining and crystallization, sugar is obtained as we know it - single white crystals. In recent years, the use of brown sugar has increased, which is much more healthy than white sugar, but the process of obtaining it is more expensive and complex.

Why-Is-High-Sugar-Intake-Harmful

Why Is High Sugar Intake Harmful

Why-Is-High-Sugar-Intake-Harmful_1_0

The intake of refined sugar leads to a very rapid rise in blood sugar. This is a signal for the production of a large amount of insulin - a hormone that is released from the pancreas and thanks to which glucose is absorbed by the body's cells. These processes occur very quickly and eventually lead to a rapid decrease in blood sugar levels, stress, irritability and a feeling of hunger.

Why-Is-High-Sugar-Intake-Harmful_1_1

When the intake of added sugar is greater than the body's needs, excess is converted into fat, which is deposited under the skin and around some organs. Data show that when a person's diet includes a high amount of added sugars, the likelihood of obesity is greater. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6959843/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.1]</a>

Why-Is-High-Sugar-Intake-Harmful_1_2

Obesity is a major problem that can lead to harmful changes in metabolism and the emergence of a number of diseases. It also plays a key role in the so-called metabolic syndrome.

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Sugars have a detrimental effect on our oral hygiene. The "sweet environment" they create favors the development of bacteria responsible for the formation of caries. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5536157/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.2]</a>

Why-Is-High-Sugar-Intake-Harmful_1_5

Is it true that we can get addicted to sugar? Yes, it is true and this is scientifically proven. The reason is that sugar activates a specific area in the brain responsible for feeling happy. This same area is also activated when taking drugs. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31125634/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.3]</a>

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All these harmful effects affect to an even greater extent the developing body of children, who by nature have an affinity for sweets and no restraints in its consumption, as long as it is available.

Why-Is-High-Sugar-Intake-Harmful_1_7

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults and children reduce their daily intake of free sugars to less than 10% of their total energy intake. Further reduction to less than 5% or approximately 25 grams (6 teaspoons) per day would provide additional health benefits. [<a href="https://www.who.int/news/item/04-03-2015-who-calls-on-countries-to-reduce-sugars-intake-among-adults-and-children" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.17</a>]

Why-Is-High-Sugar-Intake-Harmful_1_8

The most insidious are the hidden sugars used in almost every product today - even in the most unexpected, salty foods. For example, one tablespoon of ketchup contains one teaspoon of sugar.

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It is no coincidence that one of the most popular diets is the ketogenic diet, in which carbohydrates, ie. sugars intake is kept to a minimum.

Why-Is-High-Sugar-Intake-Harmful_1_10

The-Connection-Between-Refined-Sugar-And-Cancer

The Connection Between Refined Sugar And Cancer

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Consumption of too much sugar leads to obesity, which in turn is associated with some cancers, including breast, prostate, uterine, colon and pancreatic cancers.

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In addition, recent observations show that cancer cells easily use fructose for their growth and reproduction and prefer to use it to synthesize their nucleic acids. Probably the role of fructose in the development of cancer cells is due to mechanisms such as altered cellular metabolism, increased levels of free radicals, DNA damage and inflammation. [<a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1517/14728222.2011.588208?journalCode=iett20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.16</a>]

Stevia,-aka-"Sweet-Leaf"

Stevia, aka "Sweet Leaf"

Stevia,-aka-"Sweet-Leaf"_3_0

When we mention natural sweeteners, perhaps the first thing you think of is stevia. This is because in recent decades there has been a lot of interest in this all-natural sweetener, its useful properties and the fact that it is a very suitable substitute for refined sugar.

Stevia,-aka-"Sweet-Leaf"_3_1

The demand for stevia also determines its widespread distribution on the market. We can find it at any organic stand in small and large stores in the form of powder, liquid, tablets. This valuable sweetener can also be purchased from drugstores, pharmacies, and also from coffee shops.

Stevia,-aka-"Sweet-Leaf"_3_2

Stevia is widely used in cooking and especially in confectionery. We can now safely eat delicious desserts with stevia without worrying that we will gain weight. The reason is that it contains zero calories and at the same time is 350 times sweeter than sugar.

The-species-Stevia-rebaudiana

The species   Stevia rebaudiana

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Stevia is derived from Stevia rebaudiana leaves , also known as "sweet leaf" or "sugar leaf". This plant is widespread in South and Central America and belongs to the Asteraceae family. The leaf extract used as a sweetener may have a sometimes bitter or residual taste. Therefore, the extraction process is more specific, so the price of stevia is higher than that of refined sugar.

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Stevia-has-been-used-as-a-sweetener-since-ancient-times

Stevia has been used as a sweetener since ancient times

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When we see the name of stevia in any recipe or in the content of any product (juice, cake, chocolate, ice cream), this attracts our attention. In recent years it is even fashionable to consume products with stevia sweetener.

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In fact, the Stevia rebaudiana plant and its qualities as a natural sweetener have been known since ancient times. The Guarani Indian people used the sweet leaves of stevia for 1,500 years, and the Spanish botanist Pedro Esteve (hence the name stevia) first studied the genus Stevia. In Brazil and Paraguay, the plant has been used for many years for medicinal purposes, and the sweet leaves - to sweeten teas.

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Stevioside and rebaudioside - the main ingredients that give the sweetness of stevia leaves

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Stevia rebaudiana leaf extract contains in the greatest amount the substances stevioside and rebaudioside. They are not caloric (contain zero calories), but are up to 350 times sweeter than sugar. <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Stevioside_and_related_compounds_therapeutic_benefits_beyond_sweetness_19000919" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.4]</a>

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Stevia has beneficial properties for&nbsp;the body, which are due to the stevioside contained in the leaves. This substance has been shown to have a beneficial effect in patients with type 2 diabetes. Stevioside lowers the postprandial blood sugar level (blood sugar level after a meal) in such patients.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Antihyperglycemic_effects_of_stevioside_in_type_2_diabetic_subjects_14681845" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.5]</a>

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What you need to know about type 2 diabetes - risk factors, causes, conventional and alternative treatment

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Stevioside reduces blood pressure in patients with moderate hypertension. This is proven by a two-year study conducted in China. The substance reduces both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and thus improves the quality of life of patients. <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Efficacy_and_tolerability_of_oral_stevioside_in_patients_with_mild_essential_hypertension_a_two_year_randomized_placebo_controlled_study_14693305" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.6]</a>

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Use and safety of stevia

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Studies have been carried out to prove that stevia is safe when used as a sweetener, but should not be used as a substitute for food. No allergic reactions have been described when using stevia, but the likelihood of occurrence of stevia should not be excluded. <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Stevioside_14561506" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.7]</a>