Why should one not eat too much sugar? How much sugar is safe to eat every day? Is sugar a ‘silent killer’? Know every answer. Why Too Much Sugar Is Harmful Health Risks And Facts Photoshow

Let us tell you, sugar is a source of energy for our body. The body creates energy by converting it into glucose. At the same time, when more sugar is consumed than required, our body is not able to use it properly. This extra sugar gradually becomes the cause of many diseases in the body.

When we eat too much sugar, the sugar level in the blood increases rapidly. To control this, our body produces a hormone called insulin. If too much sugar is consumed every day for a long time, the body’s cells are not able to recognize the insulin hormone properly. This condition is called insulin resistance, which can further increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Eating too much sugar also brings extra calories to the body. If these calories are not spent, they start getting stored as fat. This increases weight and obesity. Obesity increases the risk of other diseases like high blood pressure, heart disease and joint pain.

Sugar doesn’t just affect weight. Eating too much sugar increases the risk of cavity in teeth. The bacteria present in the mouth make acid with the help of sugar, which damages the upper layer of teeth (enamel). According to the doctor, cold drinks, energy drinks and many packed juices contain a lot of added sugar. These do not fill the stomach quickly, hence people consume more calories than required.

No. Natural sugars found in fruits, milk and some natural foods can generally be part of a balanced diet. The point of concern is Added Sugar, which is already found in sweets, biscuits, cakes, chocolates, cold drinks and many processed foods.

To stay fit, drink less sugary drinks, read labels on packaged foods, eat fresh fruits and have a balanced diet. If you have diabetes, obesity or any other disease, take sugar only after the opinion of a doctor or dietician.

• According to the World Health Organization, adults and children should limit ‘free sugar’ to less than 10% of their total daily calories. Less than 5% (about 25 grams or 6 teaspoons per day) is considered better.
• A normal 330 ml. One soft drink can contain about 35 grams or more of sugar, which is more than the recommended daily limit for many people.
• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular consumption of sugary liquids increases the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart attack.
• The American Heart Association recommends no more than 25 grams (about 6 teaspoons) of added sugar per day for women and 36 grams (about 9 teaspoons) for men.

Content Source: World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Heart Association, Mayo Clinic.