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6 signs of high sugar intake and related health issues

6 signs of high sugar intake and related health issues

Sugar is often a large part of daily meals due to its widespread use in sweetened beverages and processed foods. While sugar can have a legitimate place in balanced meals, its overindulgence can have negative effects on the body. Recognizing and addressing these telltale signs of excessive sugar intake is important for safeguarding health and well-being. This can also help one prevent other associated health issues linked to high sugar intake.

Signs of high sugar intake
Fatigue: Experiencing recurrent bouts of fatigue and a persistent lack of energy can be linked to excessive sugar intake. Although sugar can lead to a swift energy spike, it is typically short-lived. This is because the fluctuations in blood sugar levels cause energy spikes that are followed by abrupt crashes. Over time, this cycle can result in chronic fatigue and a persistent lack of energy

Persistent sugar cravings: Consistent, high sugar intake can bring out further sugar cravings. The body becomes accustomed to the frequent influx of sugar, leading to heightened urges to indulge in sweet foods and beverages. Breaking free from this cycle becomes challenging as the body starts to depend on sugar for a rapid energy boost.

Compromised immune function: A sugar-rich food regimen can impair the immune system’s ability to fight infections. Here, excessive sugar hampers the functionality of white blood cells, making the body more vulnerable to various illnesses ranging from the common cold to more serious infections.

Brain fog: Excessive intake of sugar can also affect cognitive performance. While the brain requires glucose for optimal functioning, a surplus of sugar can affect blood glucose levels, affecting concentration and memory and causing confusion or brain fog.

Excessive thirst and frequent urination: Excess sugar prompts the kidneys to intensify their efforts in filtering and absorbing glucose, elevating urine production. This can lead to dehydration and a perpetual sense of thirst.

Elevated blood pressure: High sugar intake over an extended period can contribute to heightened blood pressure levels. Food rich in sugar induces inflammation and fosters insulin resistance, which are common risk factors for hypertension.

Health issues linked to high blood sugar
The abovementioned signs can also lead to the following health issues:

Insulin resistance and prediabetes: A resistance to insulin develops when the body’s cells become less responsive to the hormone, which further contributes to high blood sugar levels. Over time, this can progress to prediabetes—a condition characterized by higher-than-normal blood sugar levels. Without intervention, prediabetes may turn to type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance or impaired insulin production. It requires careful management, including adjustments in food habits, regular exercise, and, in some cases, medication.

Cardiovascular issues: Prolonged periods of elevated blood sugar levels can inflict damage on blood vessels and the heart, heightening the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.

Kidney disease: High blood sugar can harm the kidneys’ filtering units over time, potentially causing kidney disease or kidney failure.

Nerve damage: Uncontrolled high blood sugar can harm the nerves, resulting in symptoms like tingling or numbness. It can also affect the eyes, potentially leading to vision problems or blindness. Additionally, uncontrolled blood sugar can result in foot problems, including nerve damage, compromised circulation, and sluggish wound healing.

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