With Halloween behind us and the holiday season up ahead, you might find yourself with a pile of leftover Halloween candy or standing in front of tables full of seasonal treats! Now, I’m not one to say “NEVER EAT SUGAR!” or to cut something out completely. However, I do advise that moderation is always best. I also believe it’s important to be well informed about possible health side effects when it comes to what you’re putting in your body. Take a look at the list below, so you can be better prepared when you’re deciding to have one or two slices of pumpkin pie.
Inflammation
Excessive sugar consumption has been linked to internal inflammation. Signs and symptoms of inflammation can include mood disorders, body pain, fatigue, insomnia, digestive issues, and weight gain. Reducing your sugar intake can help lower the risk and effects of inflammation.
Blood Sugar
For those struggling with high blood sugar and diabetes, sugar can have a big effect on your health. Foods high in carbs and sugar, especially when eaten in excess, can cause spikes in your blood sugar levels, leading to an effect on your insulin production.
Insulin
Insulin is the hormone that regulates the amount of sugar in your blood. When sugar consumption causes an increase in blood sugar, your body then signals your pancreas to begin insulin production. However, too much sugar consumption and high blood sugar levels can disrupt this process leading to too much insulin production resulting in insulin resistance, weakened pancreas function resulting in too little insulin production, etc.
Blood Pressure
Sodium is most commonly known to play a leading role in high blood pressure. However, Eating too much sugar can inhibit the production of nitric oxide in the blood vessels. Nitric oxide helps in expanding the blood vessels for better circulation and blood flow. Without nitric oxide, your body’s blood vessels can narrow instead of expand, leading to high blood pressure.
Wrapping Up
Keep in mind the key factor here is MODERATION. A piece of pie or Halloween candy isn’t enough to cause significant damage to your health, most of the above conditions develop from excessive consumption of sugar or genetic factors. However, if you are diagnosed with a condition that’s affected by sugar consumption, consult with your doctor about the safest way to navigate food and sweets during the holiday season to avoid any adverse effects to your health.
Have more questions? Come see me at Lotus Health and together we can create a treatment plan that’s tailored to you and your needs.
In Good Health,
Dr. Chan
