Comment

Two stories have hit the headlines recently: a proposed tax on sugar and the dangers of a high protein diet.

Let’s talk about sugar: it is highly addictive and is hidden in several types of food and drinks. Excessive consumption has been linked to degenerative diseases like diabetes.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-26442420

Would a tax on sugar curb our sugar cravings?

Well, at least it would make ready meals containing sugar more expensive.

And no, let’s talk about protein.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/science-news/10676877/High-protein-diet-as-bad-for-health-as-smoking.html

A recent study from the University of Southern California has warned about the potential dangers of relying on a diet based on animal protein. This research study links eating protein to the risk of developing cancer.

This is one of many research studies into protein – this study has gained plenty of media attention but there’s plenty of other reports that have highlighted the benefits of having protein in each meal.

What’s the message here? As always, it’s all about balance: relying on one-two food groups only may have detrimental effects on your health. Optimum nutrition is based on choosing a variety of foods from different groups (for vegetarians there’s plenty of legumes and grains to choose from) to ensure the body is absorbing all the vitamins and minerals it needs to function normally.

If you have any doubts about nutrition and how to plan your meals, our team will be delighted to help you: just email us at info@weightmatters.co.uk to book a consultation.

Words by Paola Bassanese