Cutting out our sugar habit is really challenging. However, if we become aware of the damages a super sugar-laden diet can do overtime to our health, we may really be motivated to cut it out in our lives.
Here are the amazing benefits we can start to rack up after we rein in our sweet tooth.
Fewer Colds
Because it contributes to chronic inflammation, too much consumption of sugar can lower our immune system’s ability to combat the flu and cold.
Studies revealed that intake of 100 grams of sugar can decrease the ability of white blood cells to kill bacteria by nearly 50%. Therefore, if we stop eating sugar, we’ll have fewer sniffle year-round and reduced symptoms of asthma and allergies.
Younger Looking Skin
According to a plastic surgeon in Troy, Michigan named Anthony Youn, MD:
“Sugar causes glycation, a process by which the sugar molecules bind to and deform the collagen and elastin in our skin.”
As much as possible, we should preserve collagen and elastin as they are the two main proteins that can give our skin youthful and supple properties in order to prevent early signs of aging such as sagging and wrinkles.
Loses Excess Weight
Sugar alone contains huge amounts of calories. According to the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, on average, we consume 22 teaspoons of added sugar a day, which equals around 350 calories. By reducing our consumption of sugar we’ll be able to decrease our overall calorie intake, thus helping us shed unwanted fats and a couple of inches.
Reduced Risk Of Insomnia And Improved Sleep Patterns
It was found that sugar is one of the largest factors that contribute to insomnia. It replaces fatigue with instant energy that can keep us awake all night. Meaning, if we eat our sugary midnight snack, it can keep us from getting a midnight sleep.
To restore balance in our sleep cycle and be awake with energy in the morning, avoid eating sugary foods.
Happiness
According to studies, high sugar consumption can cause high rates of depression, leads to chronic inflammation, and impacts brain function. In just one to two weeks of cutting out sugar intake, we can lift our mood and lower the risk of suffering from depression.
Lowered Risk Of Diabetes
If we always opt for high-calorie, sugary foods, the accumulated fats in our body will continue to increase until such time that it can already affect our body’s level of insulin. Insulin resistance can lead to type 2 diabetes.
By quitting on sugar and having a healthy diet, we can help our body’s natural detox system in doing their job.
Improved Oral Health
Saul Pressner, DMD, a dentist in New York City, says that:
“Sugar is a major cofactor in causing cavities as it interacts with bacteria in your mouth to form the acid that causes decay.”
By cutting down on sugar, we can prevent bad breath caused by cavities and maintain our oral health.
Reduced Risk Of Heart Disease
Consumption of sugary foods in high amounts can potentially harm our heart. It raises insulin levels leading to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
The result of a 2014 study showed that those who ate the most added sugar were most likely to die from heart disease than their counterparts who consumed the least.
