Did you know: there are about 61 different names for sugar that are listed on food labels?
Just to list a few, therebs high-fructose corn syrup, sucrose, rice syrup, and several others. Research has shown that sugar is the number one problem in our diets today. Too much sugar intake is leading us toward diabetes and obesity. As we become more informed about the negative effects of sugar, we can try to cut back on it, cutting out (or cutting down on) foods and drinks that are unhealthy for our body.
Effects of Sugar
1.The highs and lows
Our bodies often consume a lot of sugar all at once. This sugar rush tricks our bodies into feeling like we have all this sudden energy. Then we eventually crash, coming down from what feels like a sugar high. Having too much sugar often can lead us to feeling groggy, over tired, and moody.
2. Sugar is addictive
Researchers say sugar may be more addictive then cocaine. When we eat sugar, our bodies release opioids and dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in the reward portion of our brain. It gives us a sugar high, and therefore we repeat the behavior.
3.Why canbt I think straight?
Sugar has a way of slowing down both our physical and mental energy levels. Often times we find it hard to stay focused on a certain task, and the day just drags alone.
4. Hoping to lose weight, but not seeing results?
The American Heart Association recommends 9 teaspoons of added sugar per day for men and 6 teaspoons for women. Excess sugar often gets stored as fat in cells, tissue, and all around our organs. Therefore, losing weight can become a difficult task when we are constantly consuming sugar.
5.Suffer from Anxiety or depression?
Sugar does not necessarily cause anxiety but it can worsen anxiety symptoms, which can affect how the body manages and responds to stress. Research has shown refined sugar to be linked to anxiety, depression, and headaches, as well as to a suppressed immune system.
There's good news! We don't have to eat so much sugar. Despite its prevalence in many foods, its not too hard to at least cut back, and doing so could have a dramatic impact on our overall health. Our bodies will thank us.
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