By now, you must know that excessive consumption of sugar is not good for your health. However, some people often overindulge in the consumption of sugar. Sugar is high in calories and low in nutrients and tends to give rise to numerous health problems.
Often, you crave a large slice of cake. But do you know the high sugar content is bad for your health as well as for your skin? Yes, you have heard us right! Sugar accelerates the ageing process and damages other skin health factors. Sugar is present in most foods; however, it is necessary to note the difference between natural and added sugar. While natural sugar is a healthy component for nourishment, added sugar has a negative effect on our health.
Before delving into the problems of the skin caused by the intake of excessive sugar, let us talk about what natural and added sugar are:
Natural Sugar
The Sugar Association of the United States of America states that sugar stands for the word sucrose, a healthy component naturally produced in fruits and vegetables. It is a simple, water-soluble carbohydrate that provides energy for mental and physical functioning.
Added Sugar
Sugarcane is known to contain the highest quantity of sugar and is considered the optimal choice for sugar extraction, according to the Sugar Association. The white sugar used in tea, coffee, and desserts is the byproduct of extensive processing. This process leads to the loss of nutrients and has negative effects on health. Added sugar is also present in processed foods, packaged drinks, and others.
10 Reasons To Limit Sugar Intake
It is important to limit the intake of sugar, as it leads to the following health problems:
- Avoid Weight Gain
Sugar and sugary items are high in calories and low in nutrients. Consuming foods loaded with sugar can lead to increased calorie intake, leading to weight gain and obesity.
- Prevent High Blood Pressure
Consuming excessive sugar may lead to the production of nitric oxide in our blood vessels and activate the sympathetic nervous system. These factors can cause increased blood pressure and heart rate.
- Avoid Increasing Blood Sugar Levels
Although sugar intake does not directly affect the blood sugar level, factors like obesity and increased heart risks can lead to insulin resistance and increase the risk of diabetes.
- Protect Tooth From Decay
Sugar provides nourishment to oral bacteria, which in turn produces acid as a waste product. This acid can erode tooth enamel, leading to various dental issues, like cavities.
- Avoid Mood Swings And Depression
For some people, the intake of sugar provides temporary relief. The sugar contained in desserts or beverages leads to an instant increase in serotonin secretion, resulting in a sudden change in mood. However, in the long run, it can negatively affect mental health, causing symptoms like depression, anxiety, and others.
- Prevent Acne
Intake of sugar in excess amounts causes inflammation in the body, leading to increased sebum production (oil for the skin). This, in turn, results in the development of acne and pimples.
- Avoid Premature Ageing
The chemicals in sugar are known to disrupt collagen production in the skin. They also hinder the skin’s detoxification process, resulting in the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and premature ageing.
- Keep Away From Dehydration
High sugar content in the body affects blood and oxygen circulation in the skin cells, which causes dryness and dehydration in the skin.
- Avoid Puffiness Under The Eyes
Sugar triggers inflammation in the body, leading to swelling, pain, and general puffiness under the eyes.
- Prevent Dullness
Excess sugar consumption limits collagen production and breaks down elastin, a protein that provides elasticity and sheen to the skin. Limited production of this protein can make the skin appear dry and undernourished.