White Sugar in the Tayyibat Diet: Metabolism, Immunity, and Controversial Health Claims
White sugar and the Tayyibat Diet
The Tayyibat Diet has faced criticism due to its inclusion of sugar, as many doctors believe it may contribute to several diseases, including neurological inflammation. Dr. El-Awady responds by stating that sugar is a simple compound made up of six carbon atoms, and that the body can easily handle it compared to fatty acids, which may consist of 30 to 40 carbon atoms.
Therefore, sugar is easily digested and metabolized, does not accumulate in the body, does not lead to stone formation, and, according to this view, does not directly cause inflammatory effects .
Inflammation usually occurs as a result of immune system activation. Dr. El-Awady emphasizes that immune activation is often linked to proteins, based on some medical references such as the Mayo Clinic, which indicate that some individuals may develop sensitivities to foods such as eggs, milk, fish, and meat .
As for carbohydrates, cases of sensitivity are rare, while fats are considered less immunologically active (silent). In contrast, proteins may cause allergic reactions, sometimes referred to as allergies to fish, milk, or eggs. However, the idea presented here suggests that the issue is not “allergy” in the traditional sense, but rather how the body processes and digests proteins, which may lead to physiological stress on the body .
Does white sugar cause harm to the body?
Dr. El-Awady emphasizes that there are no harmful effects at all from high consumption of sugar; in this view, sugar is considered completely harmless.
Glucose is not merely a fuel, but a cornerstone in building the human body.
Hydration and lubrication: Glucose is involved in the synthesis of glycoproteins and glycosaminoglycans, which are essential components of synovial fluid and cartilage.
This helps maintain joint hydration (such as the knee) and prevents friction.
Cell building (ribose): For the body to divide and form new cells, it requires nucleic acids (DNA & RNA). Sugar is the primary source of ribose, which is necessary for these acids.
Energy production (ATP & GTP): Through glycolysis and the Krebs cycle, glucose is converted into energy “currencies” that power every cell in the body.
