SUGAR MAY BE HEALTHY FOR THE LUCKY FEW

Wouldn't it be great to trade broccoli for ice cream?

It is not wishful thinking for some. 

Due to a genetic variation amid a very small minority of Greenlanders, eating sugar is healthy, according to a study conducted by the University of Copenhagen. 

"Adult Greenlanders with the genetic variation have lower BMI, weight, fat percentage, cholesterol levels and are generally significantly healthier. They have less belly fat and might find it easier to get a six pack. It is amazing and surprising that a genetic variation has such a profoundly beneficial effect," according to Professor Anders Albrechtsen.

Carriers of this genetic variation have a sucrase-isomaltase deficiency. That is, they do not absorb sugar in the bloodstream the way most of us do. Sugar goes directly to their intestine.

“Here, gut bacteria convert the sugar into a short-chain fatty acid called acetate, which in previous studies has been shown to reduce appetite, increase metabolism and boost the immune system. That is the most likely mechanism happening here,” says Professor Albrechtsen.

It is believed that this widespread genetic variation amid Greenlanders may be due to an ancient and unique diet which includes very little sugar and large quantities of fat from fish, whales and reindeer. 

Anyone for some ice cream?

Dr T. S. Saw OAM

Wheelers Hill Dental