Sugar is a type of simple carbohydrate found naturally in many foods, including fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, and added to countless processed foods and beverages. Common forms of sugar include sucrose (table sugar), fructose (found in fruits), and lactose (found in dairy). While natural sugars in whole foods come with essential nutrients and fibre, added sugars provide empty calories without nutritional value. Quitting added sugar is generally beneficial for health. In this article, we share a list of health benefits you can achieve from quitting sugar.
Here are benefits of quitting sugar
1. Improved energy levels
Eliminating sugar helps stabilise blood sugar levels, preventing the spikes and crashes associated with high sugar intake. Stable energy levels enhance productivity and reduce feelings of fatigue and sluggishness throughout the day.
2. Better weight management
Quitting sugar reduces caloric intake and decreases insulin resistance, which can contribute to weight loss. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
3. Enhanced mental clarity and mood
Stable blood sugar levels prevent mood swings and mental fog, which are often exacerbated by sugar highs and lows. Improved mental clarity and mood can enhance cognitive function, concentration, and overall mental well-being.
4. Reduced risk of heart disease
Lower sugar intake reduces triglycerides, blood pressure, and inflammation, all of which are risk factors for heart disease. Reducing the risk of heart disease promotes cardiovascular health and longevity.
5. Healthier skin
Cutting out sugar reduces inflammation and decreases the production of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) that damage collagen and elastin. Healthier skin appears more youthful, with fewer wrinkles and acne, improving overall appearance and confidence.
6. Decreased risk of type 2 diabetes
Quitting sugar improves insulin sensitivity and reduces the burden on the pancreas. Lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes helps prevent the associated complications, such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision problems.
7. Improved dental health
Sugar is a major contributor to tooth decay and gum disease. Reducing sugar intake minimises the risk of cavities and oral infections. Better dental health prevents tooth decay, gum disease, and the associated pain and costs of dental treatments.
8. Stronger immune system
High sugar intake can suppress the immune system, making it easier for infections to take hold. Reducing sugar strengthens the immune response. A stronger immune system improves the body’s ability to fight off infections and recover from illnesses more quickly.
Source: NDTV