AD| How much sugar do you eat on a daily basis? If you use an app to keep a food diary, you may be aware of your average sugar intake, but most people have no idea just how much sugar they’re consuming. Research shows that most people take in far more sugar than they need, and this is contributing to serious health complications. If you thought having a sweet tooth was harmless, think again. Here’s the scary truth about sugar.

Type 2 diabetes

One of the most concerning consequences of excessive sugar consumption is an increase in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes. This condition, which is frequently associated with lifestyle factors, occurs when the body is unable to regulate blood glucose levels. Diabetes should be managed carefully if you have it, as it can put you at risk of eye, foot, and dental problems. Many people can control their symptoms by making dietary changes, but in some cases, patients may need to inject insulin. When it comes to sugar content, fizzy drinks are among the worst offenders. A standard can of cola can contain up to 9 teaspoons of sugar, which is far more than the 6-7 teaspoons recommended daily intake.

Serious dental problems

If you follow dental news, you may be aware that there has been a significant increase in the number of children requiring dental extraction under general anaesthesia, which is largely due to diet. Children are consuming more sugar than ever before, and a recent study in the United Kingdom found that the average child consumes their body weight in sugar each year. The main side effect of sugar consumption is decay. When bacteria in the mouth consume sugar, they produce acids that wear away the protective enamel coating, resulting in the formation of cavities. It is very simple to prevent decay.

Simply brushing your teeth every morning and evening, going to a dentist like Bowral Street Dental Practice for regular checkups, and eating a healthy diet will significantly reduce your risk of decay. Avoid brushing or cleaning immediately after eating because your enamel will be soft for about an hour. Brushing at this point may cause damage. It’s also essential to limit snacking because eating throughout the day exposes your teeth to constant acid attack.

Obesity

Overweight or obese adults account for more than two-thirds of the adult population in the United States. Obesity risk is heavily influenced by diet, and people who consume a lot of sugary foods are more likely to gain weight. Obesity can put you at risk for a variety of life-threatening illnesses, including heart disease and certain types of cancer. You can quite often lose weight by changing your diet to reduce your sugar intake. Eliminating soda and energy drinks is a good place to begin.

We regularly consume sweet treats without giving much thought to what we are eating or how it will affect our health. When you’re tempted to reach for the candy jar, consider how much sugar you’ve already consumed and whether you really need any more.