How Much Sugar is Too Much? How the Body Processes Sugar

The Body’s Processing Of Sugar

There are a number of effects that excessive sugar can have on the body. Because it’s a high glycemic food, it has a profound impact on the body, causing high blood sugar, as well as detrimentally affecting the body’s insulin levels. These effects can be bad for everyone, but especially detrimental for those who are diabetic. The pancreas processes sugar, producing insulin, so high blood sugar can be harmful to the pancreas as well. The liver stores excess glucose, and regulates the overall level of glucose in the body. While these organs are very efficient at handling a normal diet, when too much sugar is introduced, it can be difficult for the body to keep the sugar levels properly maintained, which can cause a number of different health issues. Excessive sugar can also be damaging to the kidneys, especially if a person has developed diabetes.

Negative Effects Of Sugar On The Body

One of the worst ways to consume sugar is by itself, or in foods that contain mostly “empty calories”. With these types of foods, the effect of the sugar on the body is very profound, as it reaches the blood very quickly, causing high blood sugar. When consumed with other types of foods, such as a complex carbohydrate, the effect on the body is more gradual, and the body is better equipped to process the sugar. By slowing the rate by which the sugar is absorbed into the bloodstream, many of the negative effects of sugar are lessened.

Another negative effect from sugar is the fact that it is very high in calories. This can cause weight gain, which also contributes to a number of health issues, including coronary problems and diabetes. An excessive high blood sugar level within the body can also interfere with its ability to absorb certain nutrients, such as magnesium and calcium.

There are other problems caused by sugar as well. Tooth decay can result, especially because foods that are high in sugar are often sticky. Depression and hypertension can also be common, and hyperactivity can often occur from too much sugar, especially in children.

Giving The Body The Sugar It Needs

While sugar does provide energy to the body, nutritionists and the USDA recommend getting most of your carbohydrate calories in the form of complex carbohydrates, or fruits and vegetables. These types of foods provide other nutrients and fiber as well, and slow the effect of sugar being absorbed into the body. A person’s consumption of processed sugars should be limited to about 100 to 300 calories per day in a healthy eating plan.