Everywhere around us, there is this general consensus on how 'refined sugar' should be ditched. Recently, in one of the visits to the finest pattiseries in Bangalore, I noticed the labels 'refined-sugar free', 'vegan', 'gluten-free' and was pleasantly surprised. [^2] Being 'refined-sugar' free is the new thing now. Yet, when we investigate the differences between refined-sugar and jaggery[^3], there aren't much perceived differences. One is considered as the devil incarnate, whereas, the other one is considered more saintly. One of the biggest arguments against the use of refined sugar is the use of chemicals in processing it. However, this argument is one-sided as jaggery production also involves multiple steps that involve chemical processing. ![[Pasted image 20230716204109.png]] Take this example of this brand labelling itself as natural, herbal and pure while having Hydrocortisone Acetate, Betamethasone & Prednisolone (known corticosteroids). The reason why jaggery is perceived to be better than refined sugar is because it’s a natural product. But what’s natural is not always good. Not all products labelled this way are good for health. One should be wary of the [[Marketing That Implies the Obvious|marketing gimmicks]]. ![[Pasted image 20230720061812.png]] What’s also traditionally consumed is also not good always. Even if it comes in your grandmoms concoctions. ![[Turmeric leads to Lead Poisoning]] [^2]: Sugar is all of a sudden so evil. It's surprising how this was a late realisation. This is when I came across this article that the sugar industry literally paid Harvard to blame obesity on fat instead of sugar. [^3]: Jaggery is slightly more healthier compared to sugar as it contains more vitamins and minerals. However, it is not a safer alternative for those looking to reduce their blood sugar levels. People with diabetes will notice nearly identical effects on their insulin levels after consuming jaggery as they experience after consuming white sugar