Sugar Alert: New Research Links Excess Consumption to Wide Range of Health Issues
New research has sounded the alarm on excessive sugar consumption, linking it to a wide range of health issues, from physical ailments to mental well-being. Experts warn that added sugars, found in many everyday foods and drinks, provide 'empty calories' and lack essential nutrients, contributing to various health problems.
Overindulging in sugar can lead to serious health consequences. It raises the risk of type-2 diabetes due to insulin resistance and increased body fat. Regular consumption may also contribute to cognitive decline over time. Furthermore, high sugar intake promotes chronic inflammation, affecting various bodily systems. This includes accelerating skin ageing, contributing to sagging and wrinkles.
Excessive sugar can also lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by overloading the liver with fat. It causes dental issues, primarily cavities, by feeding harmful mouth bacteria. Moreover, it contributes to weight gain and obesity, and is linked to an increased risk of depression and other mood changes. High sugar intake also increases the risk of heart disease by promoting inflammation and high blood pressure.
Research also suggests that a diet high in sugar can contribute to psychological burdens such as stress and anxiety, though the evidence is more indirect and relates largely to how diet influences bodily health and stress resilience, rather than identifying sugar as a direct cause of specific mental disorders.
The evidence is clear: excessive sugar consumption can have severe implications for both physical and mental health. It is crucial to monitor and limit our intake of added sugars to maintain overall well-being. Health experts recommend consuming no more than 30 grams (around 7 teaspoons) of added sugar per day for adults, and less for children.
