Excessive amount of sucrose is not beneficial to the body. Sucrose or commonly called as table sugar is available in raw form but also present in processed foods and baked goods. Due to the high calorie content of sucrose without any nutritional value, it is recommended to limit the amount ingested. For men, the intake must be limited to 9 teaspoons in a day while women should limit the intake to no more than 6 teaspoons a day. Consumption of more than the recommended amount of sucrose will eventually lead to both short term and lasting side effects.
Sugar crash
Once too much sucrose is consumed in a single meal, the individual might experience sugar crash within a few hours. This is a condition which involves sudden spikes and falls in the blood sugar level. There is a momentary spike in the energy level and then the undesirable effects manifest during a fall. Some of the common side effects include headaches, sudden fatigue and irritability. With the help of first aid care, these side effects can be minimized.
Weight gain
Since sucrose is packed with calories, the consumption of large amount of sweets can eventually lead to weight gain. Take note that the weight gain is exacerbated in children and adults who also eat large amounts of carbs and fats. Obviously, those who are overweight or obese are at risk for life-threatening conditions and can make daily tasks difficult and burdensome.
Insulin resistance
Those who consume large amounts of sugar over time will eventually lead to insulin resistance which is indicative of type 2 diabetes. As of now, further studies are being conducted to prove the effects. On the other hand, it is already established the consumption of large amounts of sucrose can affect the glucose levels especially among diabetic individuals.
Tooth decay
One of the main causes of tooth decay is no other than sugar. The sucrose present in sweetened beverages and foods has the tendency to stick to the enamel of the teeth. This creates the ideal breeding ground for cavities. Sugar can even alter the natural level of bacteria in the mouth and promote gingivitis which is a gum disease. Always remember that tooth decay can lead to tooth loss, thus it is a must to deal with the cause of the decay as soon as possible.
Changes in the cholesterol level
It is important to note that a diet high in fat is not the only one responsible for elevated cholesterol levels. In reality, substantial amounts of sucrose that is consumed over time can increase the triglyceride levels. Even though these fats are naturally present in the blood, excess amounts can increase the risk for cardiovascular diseases. A diet that is high in sucrose will increase the susceptibility of the individual to develop heart problems. An elevated level of triglyceride will work together with obesity, but this is not always true. Additionally, sucrose can also affect the cholesterol level by reducing the level of high-density lipoproteins which is also known as the good cholesterol.