Ep 12. How Sugar and Salt Shaped World History

Food, Science, and the Human Body Season 1 Episode 12 delves into the fascinating history of two of the most common food additives: sugar and salt. In this episode, viewers will be taken on an enlightening journey through time starting from the early days of human civilization, all the way up to present day.

The show explores how sugar and salt have shaped the world as we know it today. From the Ancient Greeks and Romans, who prized salt so highly that it was used as currency, to the Age of Exploration, where sugar was so highly valued that it fueled the development of the slave trade.

The episode offers a comprehensive examination of the science behind these two food additives and the ways in which they affect our bodies. Through interviews with leading scientists, viewers will learn about the chemistry of sugar and salt and how they interact with our taste buds and bodies.

The episode also takes time to explore the cultural significance of these two additives, both historically and in modern times. Viewers will learn about the role that sugar and salt have played in various cultural practices, from the use of sugar in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies to the centrality of salt in Jewish and Muslim traditions.

But the show doesn't stop at exploring the historical and cultural significance of sugar and salt. It also takes a deep dive into the detrimental health effects of excessive consumption of these additives. The episode makes clear the ways in which sugar and salt can lead to serious health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Overall, "How Sugar and Salt Shaped World History" is a fascinating and educational exploration of two of the most common food additives. The episode provides a compelling blend of historical context, scientific knowledge, and cultural significance while also highlighting the need for moderation in our consumption of these additives. Viewers will come away with a deeper understanding of the ways in which sugar and salt have shaped our world and our health.