The article traces the origins of our affinity for sweets to the Arab world during the 7th and 8th centuries, particularly in Baghdad, where sugar-based treats became popular. It explains that the term 'sugar' derives from the Arabic 'Sukkar', introduced to Europe after the Crusades, linking increased sugar consumption with modern diets. Today, sugar is pervasive in foods, leading to health issues like obesity and diabetes. Mixed findings around sugar addiction highlight changes in brain pathways due to sugar overconsumption, drawing parallels with substance addiction.
Health experts blame sugar for common health concerns, including diabetes and obesity-related diseases. Chronic sugar overconsumption can change neuronal pathways, paralleling substance use disorders.
The word 'sugar' comes from the Arabic 'Sukkar', imported by Europeans along with a heightened appetite for sweetness in their diets post-Crusades.
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