Sugar gets a bad rap, but the truth is, it’s a vital source of energy and essential to our survival. Of course, not all candies are the same. The fructose found in fruits and vegetables and the lactose in dairy-rich foods are natural sugars we don’t have to worry about because these foods also contain fiber and calcium, for example. However, the added sugars often found in processed foods are sugars we can do without, and most of us consume too much of them.
NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF SUGAR ON THE BODY
According to Harvard Health Publishing, when we eat sugar, most of it is broken down and absorbed in the small intestine. Special enzymes attack larger molecules and turn them into three simpler sugars: glucose, galactose and fructose. The liver and muscles store some of the glucose as glycogen, a molecule that can be converted back into glucose when your body needs it.
CAUSES DISEASES
If you consume large amounts of added sugar, cells can become insulin resistant over time, a risk factor for systemic inflammation, type 2 diabetes and other chronic conditions.
Consuming too much sugar is also linked to weight gain and obesity, risk factors for heart disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cancer.
The following signs may be your body’s reaction to eating too much sugar. If you have one or more of these, consult your doctor as soon as possible.
IF YOU ARE CONTINUOUSLY Hungry DEFINITELY GAINING WEIGHT
If you’re consuming too many calories through added sugars, increased hunger is one of the first signs. Keep in mind that without the protein, fiber, and healthy fats found in most processed snacks and sugary snacks, the body quickly burns sugar and increases hunger, leaving you feeling hungry all the time. In short, eating sugar makes you want to eat more sugar, which makes you hungrier.
IF YOU ARE CONTINUOUSLY EDITABLE
If you’re feeling cranky, irritable, or nervous, stress may not be the only reason. This could also be a sign that you’re eating too much sugar.
TIRED AND WEAKNESS
Sugar is easily absorbed and digested, so if you’re feeling tired, it may be because of the amount of sugar you’re getting in your diet.
IF YOU ALWAYS FEEL SWEET
If you’re craving sweets, you may be addicted to sugar’s feel-good effects on your brain.
CAN CAUSE HIGH TENSION
According to research, consumption of sugary drinks has a significant association with high blood pressure and a higher incidence of hypertension.
Accelerates the formation of acne
If you’re struggling with acne, it may be helpful to consider how much sugar you’ve added, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. Wrinkles can be another sign that you’re consuming too much sugar.
MAY CAUSE JOINT PAIN
Do not always attribute the pain in the joints to your age.
CAUSES SLEEP PROBLEMS
If you have started to have problems in diving and having a sound sleep, you should definitely pay attention to how much sugar you eat per day.
CAUSES DIGESTIVE PROBLEMS
If you have stomach pain, cramps or diarrhea, there are many reasons to blame, and your doctor can help you get to the root of your symptoms. Experts say too much sugar, known to irritate the gut, is one possible culprit.