Pure, White and Deadly

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Pure, White and Deadly: How Sugar Is Killing Us and What We Can Do to Stop It is a book by British scientist John Yudkin, first published in 1972. The book presents the argument that the consumption of sugar is a major cause of several chronic diseases, including heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

Background

John Yudkin was a prominent British physiologist and nutritionist. He was a professor of nutrition at Queen Elizabeth College, University of London. Yudkin's research focused on the effects of sugar on the human body, and he was one of the first scientists to suggest that sugar, rather than fat, was a primary cause of many chronic diseases.

Content

In Pure, White and Deadly, Yudkin argues that the consumption of sugar has increased dramatically in the 20th century and that this increase is linked to a rise in chronic diseases. He presents evidence from various studies to support his claims and discusses the mechanisms by which sugar can cause harm to the body.

Key Points

• **Sugar and Heart Disease**: Yudkin suggests that sugar consumption is linked to an increased risk of heart disease. He argues that sugar can raise levels of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood, which are risk factors for heart disease.
• **Sugar and Obesity**: The book discusses the role of sugar in the development of obesity. Yudkin argues that sugar is a major contributor to weight gain because it is high in calories and can lead to overeating.
• **Sugar and Diabetes**: Yudkin also links sugar consumption to the development of type 2 diabetes. He suggests that sugar can cause insulin resistance, which is a key factor in the development of diabetes.

Reception

When Pure, White and Deadly was first published, it received mixed reviews. Some praised Yudkin for his pioneering work, while others criticized him for not having enough scientific evidence to support his claims. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Yudkin's work, and many of his ideas have been supported by new research.

Legacy

Pure, White and Deadly has had a lasting impact on the field of nutrition. It has influenced public health policies and has been cited by many researchers studying the effects of sugar on health. The book has also been reprinted several times and remains a popular resource for those interested in the health effects of sugar.

See Also

• Sugar
• John Yudkin
• Heart disease
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Nutrition