Dr. Pooja Reddy, a dermatologist from Hyderabad, has raised concerns regarding the health risks associated with industrial starch, which she claims may surpass those of sugar and refined carbohydrates. In a recent social media post, Dr. Reddy described industrial starch as the world's most dangerous carbohydrate, emphasizing its harmful effects on the body. She asserted that industrial starch, unlike naturally occurring starch from foods like potatoes and rice, is produced through extensive processing involving extreme heating and chemicals, rendering it highly detrimental to health.
Dr. Reddy explained that industrial starch can lead to severe health issues primarily due to its rapid absorption rate, causing even higher blood sugar spikes than those experienced after consuming sugar. Regular consumption of these processed carbohydrates, often found in packaged foods, snacks, and protein powders, can prompt inflammation, weight gain, and fatty liver disease.
The manufacturing of industrial starches such as maltodextrin and cornstarch strips these products of beneficial fiber, fat, and protein, leaving a carbohydrate that lacks nutritional value. This highly processed form of starch promotes the growth of harmful gut bacteria, leading to inflammation and nutrient deficiencies, particularly of vitamins D and B1, which are critical for energy metabolism and immune health. Consequently, the imbalance of gut microflora may also result in digestive issues and fatigue.
One of the alarming outcomes of industrial starch consumption is its contribution to the growing diabetes epidemic in India. Currently, the nation has around 100 million individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes, with increasing cases linked to the insulin resistance provoked by these starches. The quick digestion of industrial starch leads to elevated blood sugar levels, placing additional strain on the pancreas and worsening diabetes risk over time.
Dr. Reddy warns consumers to be careful when selecting packaged foods, as many products marked as sugar-free or low-sugar can contain detrimental industrial starches that negatively impact health. Ingredients such as modified food starch, corn starch, and wheat starch are often hidden in common foods like sauces, soups, and snack items.
Given the alarming health repercussions associated with industrial starch, Dr. Reddy advises individuals to remain vigilant regarding their food choices, scrutinizing labels carefully to avoid foods that may undermine their health. As India grapples with a diabetes crisis, the consumption of industrial starch could be a silent yet catastrophic contributor to the dire health landscape. Monitoring and limiting industrial starch intake is an important step towards improved metabolic health and overall well-being.