Why You’re Eating More Sugar Than You’re Supposed To
We know sugary diets have consequences, but many can’t resist their sweet tooth.
Nutritionists and dieticians often recognize this by emphasizing the latest research on sugar addiction as an attempt to raise awareness of this growing problem.
Most people would be shocked to learn that many of the common processed foods we enjoy, such as instant oatmeal, breakfast-to-go bars, and bottled spaghetti sauces, contain some of the highest levels of sugar.
If fat loss is your priority, know the consequences of regularly eating a lot of sugar.
Side Effects of Too Much Sugar
Eating foods that contain high amounts of sugar can give you a very euphoric or relaxing feeling, the more you consume them. This is because sugar triggers the production of opioids in your brain, creating a positive feedback loop that demands more sugar to be consumed.
While it can be enjoyable to indulge in treats like powder cakes, custard, and candies, you should be aware of what higher amounts of sugar can do to your bloodstream in the long term.
A recent study showed that elevated blood sugar can raise low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) and lower high-density lipoprotein (good cholesterol).
In addition, a Harvard study linked higher blood sugar levels to high blood pressure, which causes the liver to dump more fats into the bloodstream.
The Amount of Sugar You Should Have
As mentioned before, many people are unaware of how much daily sugar they consume from foods commonly found in supermarkets or grocery aisles.
The average American currently consumes about twice the daily recommended amount, with soft drinks and candy being the main culprits for our sugar addiction.
Sugar is still prevalent in a majority of foods and condiments we consume daily. An adult male should have no more than 10 teaspoons (40g) per day. Females would stay within 8 teaspoons (32g) daily.
High sugar diets are not only a part of the growing obesity epidemic, but they’re also horrible for our oral health. As you sip these drinks throughout the day, you increase your teeth’s exposure to highly acidic liquids that can cause permanent dental damage.
The Wrap Up
Sugar is such a staple in Western diets that we’ve become unaware of how dangerous consuming high amounts can be to our long-term health. Processed foods should be avoided when possible, but you may need to take further precautions with your food choices. To prevent excessive weight gain on a diet, your best option is to choose fruits and nuts to curb your cravings for unhealthy, sugary snacks.
