The Sugar Debate: Regulation Over Prohibition

Given the long-term impact of sugar on the body, we've come to see some sets of people clamoring for its ban or regulation just as we've seen with alcohol, citing the fact that they're both somewhat toxic and we shouldn't let one slide while we leave the other. But are they right to want the same measures and judgment to be melted on sugar just as it has been placed on alcohol? Are they even the same or similar in any way, or are these people just looking for ways to make sure everyone feels what they feel when alcohol was regulated? In this article today, I'll be stating my take on the subject matter based on my understanding of both, so without further ado, let's get to it.

So to start with, is it ideal for sugar to be placed in the same category with alcohol? I think not; they are completely different entities in my opinion and shouldn't be put in the same category. Why did I say so? I said this because alcohol, in my opinion, is processed and dangerous to our health; sugar, on the other hand, is more natural, although some are processed too, but it's kind of different. You might argue that sugar is also dangerous, which is true, but unlike alcohol, which is dangerous, be it small or in large quantities, sugar is only dangerous when taken in large quantities continuously.

So with that being understood, should sugar then be banned or regulated? Firstly, I'd like to start by saying no, sugar shouldn't be banned, and the reason why I'm saying it shouldn't be banned is because, one, it's not toxic the way alcohol is; secondly, like I said above, it's more natural, and that's why it can be found in fruits, vegetables, and the like, so given the fact that sugar exists in natural food, it's quite impossible to ban it, because doing so means you're banning those vegetables and fruits as well, and lastly, I'm against banning it because it'll lead to humans creating a black market for it, and this will make people crave it more, just like we have with alcohol in places where it's been banned.

What then can be done to contain the long-term impact of sugar on our body? In my opinion, I do agree with sugar being regulated, just not inclined with it being banned. Sugar, despite how some might view it, is actually very important, as it gives us energy. So we can as well call sugar a great source of energy. When it becomes dangerous is when we consistently take it excessively, and that's why I said it should be regulated, because exceeding sugar intake brings about obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and many other things.

So to help humans, we can just go ahead and regulate how much sugar one can have in a day. Also, just like alcohol, write a clear warning sign to help people understand the danger that awaits those who take it excessively, and most of all, we should make sure to have a well-detailed food education for everyone, especially in schools, so we can inculcate in our young ones from a tender age.

All photos are taken and edited on canva.