Control your sugar intake before it becomes a problem.

Health Effects of Eating Too Much Sugar

Various studies have been done on the effects of consuming too much sugar. Dr. Robert Lustig, of the University of California, in particular, has been a pioneer in sugar metabolism research. Dr. Lustig has concluded that the human body can safely metabolize six added teaspoons of sugar each day, though people are consuming more than three times that amount. More excess sugar is metabolized into fat and can lead to chronic metabolic diseases. Some of the effects of eating too much sugar are listed below.

• Metabolic Dysfunction – Consuming too much sugar causes a whole host of symptoms known as classic metabolic syndrome. These symptoms can include elevated blood sugar, weight gain, increased LDL and decreased HDL, high blood pressure, and elevated triglyceride levels.
• Liver Damage – Eating too much sugar or fructose has been likened to the effects of consuming too much alcohol. All the excess sugar eating is transported to the liver, causing it to become overloaded and potentially leading to liver damage.
• Weight Gain – Fructose can trick metabolism, causing people to eat more, and develop insulin resistance. This can lead to weight gain and issues with insulin signaling.
• Increased Uric Acid Levels – Consuming too much sugar can lead to increased levels of uric acid which can be a risk factor for kidney and heart disease. Safe uric acid levels are between three to five and a half milligrams per deciliter.
• Tooth Decay – Eating excess amounts of sugar can lead to tooth decay as the bacteria that causes plaque actually uses sugar as a source of energy.

Controlling Sugar Intake

In general, sugar is not bad in its natural form, as long as it is consumed in moderation. To cut down on the amount of sugar being ingested, you should avoid processed foods and beverages such as soda. Processed foods often contain added sugar, and refined carbohydrates can actually break down to sugar in the body. It is important to remember that even healthy foods such as fruit naturally contain fructose, so this should be kept in mind when planning a healthy diet free of excess sugar.

Do away with sugary drinks

Sugar-sweetened beverages like soft drinks and juices are a major source of added sugar. One can of soda has more than the daily recommended limit. “The number one?thing you should do to lower sugar intake: Don’t drink your sugar”. Natural sugar is the best form of sugar for the body. This can be found in fruits and honey.