Statistics suggest that almost 90% of the people in the country regularly exceed their daily sugar intake. Excess sugar intake contributes to obesity and diabetes. Moreover, people who are unaware of their blood sugar levels may consume more sugar, worsening the condition. Hence it is important to be aware of symptoms that develop with increased intake of sugar. Let’s take a look at what happens to the body when excess sugar is consumed.
Tooth Decay
This is the first sign the body sends when you eat excess sugar. The acid produced when sugar is broken down interacts with the enamel of the teeth, which causes them to decay.
Increased hunger with weight gain
With an increased sugar intake, there is also a surge in calorie intake, which increases bouts of hunger pangs. Stuffing with sugar instead of proteins and healthy fats can lead to excess weight.
Skin problems
This is yet another thing that happens to the body when you eat sugar. Sugary foods (except fruits that are naturally sweet) have a high glycemic index, and such foods are associated with skin problems, like acne and wrinkles.
Irritability
It has been observed that excess sugar intake can make you stressed and irritated. This is because of increased inflammation and high blood sugar that can make you feel sluggish and irritated.
Increased sugar cravings
When we eat sugar, the brain releases dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical that is typically released upon having positive interactions. As a result, the brain sends signals to eat more sugar to maintain dopamine levels.
Digestive issues
Excess sugar is a gut irritant, as it increases the risk of suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, and even ulcerative colitis. These digestive disorders may lead to a number of uncomfortable symptoms, such as abdominal cramping, stomach pain, and bloating. The other possible discomforts include diarrhea, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. Not cutting back on sugar may worsen these signs.
Liver disease
It has been found that excess sugar is as harmful to the liver as consuming an intoxicating substance. Eating more sugar can also cause fatty liver. This is because excess sugar causes a rise in blood sugar levels, affecting the liver.
Brain fog
Excess sugar can cause inflammation, leading to hyperglycemia. Although glucose is essential for proper brain function, excess intake can cause information-processing speed and working memory.
Excess sugar intake could also lead to macular degeneration, where one loses one’s central vision due to damage to the macula. An individual may also suffer from diabetic retinopathy, resulting in vision loss and blindness. Diabetes patients may suffer from damage to their blood vessels in the retina, which could lead to such complications.
Apart from a low-sugar meal plan, doctors may recommend the following treatments for complications caused by high blood sugar.
For individuals displaying the above-specified symptoms of excessive blood sugar, booking an appointment with a local healthcare expert for a quick checkup can be an effective solution to diagnose conditions such as diabetes or diabetic neuropathy at the earliest. Early diagnosis helps individuals start treatment for such conditions in their initial stages when they are easier to manage.
Another method to manage diabetes is through Medicare. The federal medical insurance program covers diabetes self-management training services for people who are at high risk for the condition. It also offers coverage to those who face a risk of developing the condition. Medicare Part B provides access to regular diabetes screening tests, blood glucose monitors, and supplies such as lancet devices and test strips, as prescribed by the doctor.
INGREZZA® (valbenazine)
Diabetics are at risk of developing tardive dyskinesia (TD). INGREZZA® is one of the treatments for the condition. It curbs the excess dopamine signaling and monitors the region of the brain responsible for uncontrollable movements.
EYLEA® (aflibercept)
EYLEA®, which contains aflibercept, is used to treat diabetic macular edema (DME), diabetic retinopathy (DR), wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and specific other eye conditions. It is given by injection into the eye.
Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are chronic health conditions that lead to high blood sugar levels. However, they can be managed with TOUJEO®, an insulin injection, and oral treatment options like Kerendia, Farxiga, and Jardiance. Further, women with diabetes may use Nexplanon—a birth control implant. Nevertheless, life insurance is a must-have as it offers beneficial coverage options for people with diabetes.
TRINTELLIX is a prescription treatment given for major depressive disorder management that could impact blood sugar levels as a potential side effect. Medical consultation is advised in such cases.
Furthermore, research indicates that patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of poor prognosis with certain infectious respiratory diseases. Hence, it is imperative to prioritize them during vaccination. However, diabetes patients must be careful about their uncontrolled sugar levels after taking vaccines such as Novavax and adhere to a meal plan that best suits them.