One of the most enjoyable parts of the holidays is the wide variety of foods and beverages offered at parties, dinners and gatherings. However, many of these foods contain large amounts of sugar, which is known to have a detrimental effect on health in many different ways. Here are some ideas on enjoying the holidays, while still maintaining control over your sugar consumption:
1. Preventing Holiday Weight Gain
As at any time of year, portion control can help you to stay on your diet. To avoid the weight gain that routinely happens with the availability of holiday sweets and treats, learn the special techniques needed for baking with artificial sweeteners, and you can be the person that brings the welcomed, low-calorie treats to holiday parties.
2. Sugar Effects on Energy Levels
The “sugar crash” is a well-known effect that causes fatigue, mood problems and general loss of energy. This effect can be particularly troubling during the holiday season. When you need a snack to lift your energy during the day, reach for a hard-boiled egg or piece of cheese instead of a gingerbread cookie or hot chocolate. Protein is metabolized slowly in the body and will help you sustain your energy level throughout the day.
3. Effects of Sugar on Dental Health
Sugar serves as the food for bacteria that causes dental caries both above and below the gum level. Conscientious attention to brushing and flossing can help to remove the sugar and bacteria, but to ensure good dental health, cut down on the amount of candies, cookies and other sweets. Visit a dental clinic like Schererville Family Dentistry to get a cleaning as an incentive for keeping your mouth clean.
4. Sugar’s Effect on Blood Glucose Levels
Regular consumption of sugary foods can cause a condition called “insulin resistance,” in which your body is no longer able to produce normal levels of insulin that removes glucose from blood. As a result, blood sugar levels rise, which can lead to type-2 diabetes and the resulting damage that occurs to blood vessels in the body. If you find you need something to satisfy your sweet tooth, you can find many products that contain artificial sweetener to prevent this problem.
5. Sugar Negatively Effects Heart Health
Consuming large amounts of sweets causes damage to the lining of blood vessels that can leave individuals vulnerable to heart disease and stroke. Avoid sugary foods and choose strawberries or blueberries, which have antioxidants that improve heart health. Oranges are also in season this time of the year, so eat one of those instead to get a healthy dose of Vitamin C and fight off winter colds.
6. Sugar’s Increases Fat Deposits in the Liver
Sugary sweets can also cause the development of fatty deposits in the liver, which can affect liver function. Fatty liver has become a growing problem among adults because of the amount of high fructose corn syrup found in many kinds of processed foods. Choose artificially sweetened cookies or candies, or simply opt for fruits that are naturally sweet.
Limiting the amount of sweets you consume can have a direct effect on your health. Use these tips to stay fit and well throughout the holiday season.
