Ultimately, drugs come in different shapes and forms and come from a variety of sources. For example, cocaine is drawn from the juices of the coca plant (a sacred bush from South America), while heroin is synthesized from morphine (a painkiller synthesized from the opium poppy in Asia). On the other hand, alcoholic beverages are derived from grains, fruits, and even root vegetables (like Vodka). However, did you ever think that one of the most dangerous substances on the planet has been right under your nose? In fact, you might be eating it right now. We are, of course, talking about a little white powder called: sugar. However, is this sticky, sweet, and relatively innocent-looking substance (the same substance found in your kids’ breakfast cereal) addictive? Let’s take a closer look and find out if sugar is the most widely accepted addictive drug on the planet.
Cookies and Cocaine
In a renowned study published in Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, medical professionals confirmed that sugar meets all qualifications as a substance that can easily be abused and have stated that people can become addicted (in a manner of speaking). In fact, the researchers also explained how intermittent sugar consumption can trigger drastic changes in behavior and neurochemical processing that is identical to drug abuse. Furthermore, Dr. Paul van der Velpen (head of the Amsterdam health services) has issued a public warning stating that sugar is identical to alcohol and tobacco.
A Need for Intervention
As strange as this may sound, Dr. van der Velpen has urged government intervention, proclaiming that people around the world are suffering from a sugar epidemic. He has even urged the public to remove soft drinks from schools and cut sugar content in foods completely in half. Over and over, Dr. van der Velpen has described sugar as the deadliest drug in the world.
Is Sugar Addiction Real?
Based on the information provided by the recent study and Dr. van der Velpen, we can easily say that, in a way, sugar can be addictive. However, we can definitely confirm that this substance is toxic to human health. In fact, the American Heart Association has reported that sugar-infused soft drinks cause an estimated 118,00 deaths on a yearly basis. Meanwhile, the CDC confirmed that Americans consume 13% of daily caloric intake from (you guessed it) sugars.
Consider these statistics before reaching for a cookie.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
