5 Signs You Are Eating Too Much Sugar

Sugar is an integral part of the diet in today’s society; it’s widely used in processed and packaged foods, used as a food additive and has become a key ingredient in most of our favorite treats. Eating too much sugar can have a range of negative health effects, including weight gain, insulin resistance, diabetes, high cholesterol and increased risk of heart disease. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the signs of excessive sugar consumption and to take steps to reduce your overall sugar intake.

The first symptom of consuming too much sugar is an unexplained increase in energy levels. Although sugar provides energy, too much sugar can leave you feeling tired and worn out. You may find that you need more and more sugar “hits” throughout the day in order to feel energized and alert. Additionally, you may experience erratic spikes in energy followed by extreme fatigue, as well as increased irritability, mood swings and headaches.

The second uncomforting sign of excessive sugar intake is a sudden increase in body weight. While everyone’s body type is different, consuming too much added sugar has been found to cause weight gain and obesity; excess calories from sugary drinks and sugary snacks are linked to weight gain, especially in the abdominal area. Your diet has a huge impact on your overall body weight, and if you’re consuming too much sugar, you may find that extra pounds crept up on you without warning.

Another symptom of consuming too much sugar is fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Consuming large amounts of added sugar can lead to an imbalance in your blood sugar levels; your body produces a hormone known as insulin in order to regulate your blood sugar, and when you consume too much sugar, your body can become resistant to this hormone. This can lead to sudden and extreme drops in blood sugar levels, leaving you feeling dizzy, confused or lightheaded.

Unhealthy cravings and binges are also signs of over-consumption of sugar. Our bodies naturally produce the hormone serotonin which helps regulate our mood; consuming sugar can increase this hormone, leading to an accompanying feeling of pleasure and happiness. This can lead to a cycle of addiction, where you consume more and more sugar in an attempt to attain that same feeling of contentment. Furthermore, these sugar binges can result in an unhealthy cycle of overeating and feelings of guilt and shame.

Finally, your teeth may be showing the signs of too much sugar in your diet. Consuming an excessive amount of sugar can lead to oral conditions such as tooth cavities, tooth discoloration and enamel erosion. Sugary snacks, drinks and desserts all contain acids that attack and soften your teeth enamel, making your teeth more vulnerable to damage and decay. Paying special attention to your teeth and taking regular trips to the dentist can help you detect early signs of sugar damage.

In conclusion, consuming too much sugar can lead to unhealthy outcomes. It is recommended that you monitor your sugar intake to avoid unwanted results.