Sweetness isn’t inherently bad, but sweets are. Refined sugar, when consumed indiscriminately and in large amounts, can wreak havoc on the human body. While the sweet taste triggers happy hormones, uplifting the mood and temporarily clearing emotional disturbances, excessive intake leads to long-term health problems, especially if other aspects of one’s lifestyle—such as nutrition, sleep, exercise, and recreation—are neglected.
So, is sweet evil? In a sense, yes, and in a sense, no.
To make sweetness creative, opt for natural sugar alternatives rather than laboratory-developed substitutes. Organic jaggery and honey are the best options, along with crushed raisins, date syrup, figs, or dry fruits. These alternatives promote mental equilibrium, emotional well-being, and creativity. Coconut sugar and palm sugar are also good options. If real sugar must be used, khadi shakkar (rock sugar) is preferable due to its retained minerals and vitality. Its sweetness can inspire creativity and productivity, particularly for artists often driven by sugar cravings.
Sweetness has cultural significance in India, where festivals and celebrations are marked with sweets made from jaggery, dry fruits, and khadi shakkar. Ayurveda recommends starting meals with something sweet, as sweetness is fundamental among the seven tastes (sweet, tangy, salty, spicy, pungent, astringent, bitter) and essential for life. It nurtures the soul, encouraging qualities like generosity, empathy, creativity, and productivity.
Refined sugar, however, is destructive. Found in packaged foods like chocolates, cakes, cereals, and soft drinks, it causes lethargy, obesity, weak digestion, mineral loss, disturbed sleep, and even promotes conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. It can lead to emotional instability, depression, and inflammation, as it disrupts neurotransmitter regulation.
Natural sweetness, derived from fruits, vegetables, and traditional ingredients, supports health and joy. By celebrating natural sweetness creatively, humanity can balance its cravings and enhance emotional and physical wellness. Sweetness, when respected and mindfully consumed, remains the best food for the soul—a force to be celebrated, not feared.
