“Eat honey, my son, for it is good,” says Proverbs 24:13 — yet just a chapter later, we’re warned, “It is not good to eat too much honey” (Proverbs 25:27). These ancient truths ring louder today as the BVI faces an alarming health crisis — over 40 deaths in just three months, many whispering the same cause: stress.
Stress is not just a feeling; it’s a full-body attack. Our immune systems, the internal soldiers that fight off invaders, are surrendering. Phagocytes — cells that destroy harmful bacteria — lose their ability to function effectively in a sugary environment. Just six teaspoons of refined sugar reduces their effectiveness by nearly 30%. At 18 teaspoons, they can destroy only one bacterium. With weakened defences, illness flourishes.
And sugar does more damage than we realise. It depletes vital B vitamins, such as B5 and B6, which support our nerves.
Other adverse effects of refined sugar:
- Raises insulin levels and contributes to the development of obesity and diabetes
- Robs us of essential minerals like calcium
- Disrupts hormone balance (adrenal fatigue due to excessive stimulation
- Paralyses the immune system
- Can lead to food allergies by compromising the function of enzymes
- Can lead to chronic conditions, including diabetes, hypoglycemia, cardiovascular disease, mineral deficiencies, gallstones, and behavioural problems.
- Increased risk of cancer
Refines sugar isn’t just empty calories — it’s a threat to our long-term health. Take a look at the table below, which provides a snapshot of “empty” calories.
| SWEET | TEASPOONS OF SUGAR |
| Banana Split | 25 |
| Fruit Pie | 10 |
| Doughnuts | 6 |
| Soft drink (8 oz) | 5 |
| Chocolate Candy | 4 |
| Ice cream | 4 |
| Jelly or jam | 3 |
Did you know that it takes 12 stalks of sugarcane to make 1 tsp of sugar?
In 1905, people consumed 20 teaspoons of sugar per day. By 1991, that number had more than doubled to 43. Now, in times of heightened stress, it’s up to us to make better choices.
Support your body. Replace sugary treats with natural options, such as fresh fruit, dried fruit, smoothies, or desserts sweetened with applesauce or juice concentrates. These nourish your body while satisfying cravings — without the sugar crash or immune system toll — and pave the way for a healthier future.
In these challenging times, we can’t control all stress, but we can choose what we put on our plates. Let’s sweeten life the natural way — and give our bodies a fighting chance. Remember, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice on managing stress and sugar intake.
RECIPE FOR A SWEET TOOTH
Ingredients
1/2 cup almond nuts
1/4 cup walnuts
1/2 cup dates
1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut flakes.
Directions
Remove seed from dates. Put all the ingredients in a food processor and combine until a large ball forms. Remove the mixture from the food processor and form it into small balls. Roll the balls in coconut flakes.
Consume as is or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow it to firm up. Enjoy
Written by Nature’s Way
