Signs You’re Consuming too Much Sugar

Signs You’re Consuming too Much Sugar

Breaking out

This is pretty much a given, but you’re not exactly doing your skin any favours if your sugar intake is through the roof. Some people are sensitive to getting a spike in insulin from sugar intake, which can set off a hormonal cascade that can lead to a breakout like acne or rosacea.

You’re moody

When you eat sugar, you’ll have a short-lived burst of energy. And then you’ll crash, making you low on energy. And that means you’ll be grouchy. Junk foods can satisfy your taste buds and make you happy for the short term. But, they won’t do your long-term mood any good.

Lack of energy

Energy is most stable when blood sugar is stable, so when you’re consuming too much sugar, the highs and lows of your blood sugar lead to highs and lows of energy. Eating a lot of sugar also means it’s likely you’re not eating enough protein and fibre.

Cavities

Cavities are often the sign of a sweet tooth. Don’t panic; you don’t have to give up sweets for good. You just have to consume ones that are good for you. Look to sources like low-sugar yogurt or fresh berries. You can cut back on added sugars slowly, eliminating one sweet from your diet each week.

Weight gain

Excess sugar is excess calories, and since it has no protein or fibre, it doesn’t fill you up so you just keep eating it. When you load up on sugar, your body’s told to produce more insulin and over time, that excessive output can lead to insulin resistance. And that insulin often puts fat in your belly as opposed to other body parts. That mid-afternoon snack has to go somewhere, and snacks high in sugar typically pack pounds onto your midsection. So if your clothes are suddenly snug, it may be time to curb the snacks and sweetened drinks.

Brain fog

Yes, your brain needs a steady supply of blood glucose to function properly. But you don’t want a quick rise in blood sugar and then a sharp decline, which is what happens when you consume added sugar.