Many people this time of year try to get into shape by exercising more often and giving up their sugar habits in search of better health. In the article titled, "11 Weird Things Sugar's Doing To Your Body" by Leah Zerbe, she discusses how sugar can negatively affect your overall health. Zerbe explains that Americans currently consume about 130 pounds of added sugars each year, which equals about 22 teaspoons a day. The American Heart Association recommends a much smaller amount of sugar. Fructose, an element found in sugar and high-fructose corn syrup, can cause fats to store up around your liver. This can cause nonalcholic fatty liver disease, and this condition was typically not seen before 1980. The American Heart Association recommends only 5 teaspoons a day for women, 9 teaspoons for men and 3 teaspoons for children.
Diabetes and heart-related diseases are typically related. When consuming a high amount of sugar, extra insulin is released in the body. With the extra insulin, it can cause artery walls to become tense and increased blood pressure. Stroke and heart disease have been found to be the number one cause of deaths in those that suffer from type 2 diabetes. Suzanne de la Monte, who is a neuropathologist, has a term called "type 3 diabetes" which is a link between insulin resistance, high-fat diets and Alzheimer's disease. She suggests that Alzheimer's disease affects the brain's ability to properly use glucose and energy. High-sugar diets can also cause the body to be unable to feel hungry so you are continually overeating. Sugar-laden foods also cause a large blood sugar spike and subsequent crash, causing fatigue. Sugar can also create a build-up of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) which are caused by sugar combining with proteins in the bloodstream. These AGEs attack and damage other proteins including proteins in collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin help to keep your skin firm and when sugar is overconsumed, these AGEs can cause wrinkles.
Some tips to avoid high sugar throughout the day are consuming smoothies made at home. It is best to avoid ones bought from stores because they typically contain more added sugars. Try eating whole fruits because it can dampen the effect sugar has on the body. It has been found that those who consume an extra 150 calories a day solely from sugar can have their diabetes risk increase by 1.1%. To reduce sugar intake, avoiding sugar laden foods and beverages like soda can help. Whole grain products and natural sweeteners are typically deemed as healthier, but these items can still cause a blood glucose increase in the body.
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