The NHS tells us that it is the excess consumption of sugar that has a direct unwelcome impact on body weight and dental health.
The National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) shows that the overall standard consumption of free sugars stands at double the recommended intake of 5%. The daily limit of sugars allowed in the daily diet should not exceed 30g for children over the age of 11. The survey findings report that currently, the average intake for men is 55.5g and 44.0g for women. In the 11-18 age group, the intake, 17% of free sugars is sourced from sugar-sweetened beverages.
Key health issues associated with excessive sugar intake
The more frequent teeth are exposed to sugars, the greater the risk for dental caries or tooth decay. The bad bacteria present in the mouth feed off on sugar, increasing in numbers so as to cause an imbalance in favour of bad bacteria. When plaque and tartar begin to present a threat to enamel health, it is the interventions made by a professional dentist Liverpool that can rehabilitate the mouth to complete optimal health.
After the threat posed to dental health, excessive sugar consumption presents a number of dangers to physical health. A diet high in sugars leads to an increase in body weight. When children or adults exceed the recommended body weight appropriate for their height, they may reach obesity levels.
It has been well-established that excessive body weight increases the risk of developing life-reducing conditions like diabetes, strokes and heart disease. Sugar also impacts negatively on gut health which means the immune system can be compromised too. When the body’s protective defence system is weakened, the vulnerability to falling ill and disease is greatly increased.
The intake of sugars also influences inflammation in the body. Health experts believe that inflammation can result in the development of inflammatory diseases, including arthritis, chronic pain and food sensitivities.
New bodies of medical research have established links between sugar and mental health disorders. Dementia and Alzheimer’s are on the list of brain-related disorders that are linked to inflammation, which can stem from overindulgence in sugar-rich foods.
Sugar can wreak havoc on other areas of the body too, including the least likely areas such as the skin. Too much sugar breaks down essential proteins – collagen and elastin – needed by the skin to keep its shape and structure. Without adequate levels of these essential proteins, the skin may take on a wrinkled appearance, lose its firmness and become dry and dull-looking. Acne breakouts and eczema are additional skin problems related to a high sugar diet.
Energy levels are also affected when one consumes too much sugar. This is because sugar directly influences blood sugar levels, which impact energy levels. Excessive sugar intake spikes blood sugar levels, causing energy levels to drop.
At the end of the day, while the taste buds may delight in the taste of sugar, it is our health and quality of life that suffers from a high sugar intake. All health experts would agree that curbing one’s sugar consumption is best for one’s health.
