How BIG is Illinois?

Written by Sara J. Hammond, R.N., Child Care Nurse Consultant, SDA 8
Resource: USDA

As citizens of Illinois, we all feel great when we come out on top of achievements in our country. However, after learning that Illinois rates at the fourth highest state in the prevalence of obesity, we hang our head in shame. Illinois alone accounts for a whopping $3.4 Billion of healthcare expenses related to obesity. So, what can we do to make our state slimmer? Let’s take a look at sugar intake.

In a study by the USDA from 1994-1996, Americans consume an average of 20.5 teaspoons daily. That’s 68.5 pounds per year. Currently, this amount is much likely higher because of the increase of childhood obesity and the possibility of underreporting of the actual amount by individuals studied.

Sugar is a carbohydrate. Carbohydrates provide our body with much needed energy. There are three types of sugar: natural, refined and artificial. When satisfying that sweet tooth, let natural sugars do the job. Natural sugars are found in fresh fruits and milk. Refined sugars break down in our body slowly and put less stress on our body than refined sugars.

Refined sugars are found in soda, certain breakfast cereals, candy, and table sugar. Refined sugars give us a boost of energy quickly, but then it is used up in our body quickly causing a fast drop in blood sugars. The result is a craving for more sugar in just a few hours after consuming the food or drink containing refined sugars. Consuming food and drinks containing refined sugars also can contribute to headaches, mood swings, tooth decay, Type II Diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. Among all, refined sugars are a major contributor to obesity.