The Bitter Truth Behind Sugar Overconsumption
Do you have a sweet tooth? Sugar emergencies, more common than you might think, can lead to serious health issues.
Let’s go over the realities of and consequences of overconsumption of sugar and discuss important facts and practical tips to help you maintain a healthy balance.
Sweet Danger: Unveiling the Health Risks of Sugar Overconsumption
Many people enjoy sweet treats, but excessive sugar intake is a growing concern. It’s important to understand the real impact of sugar on our health. Overindulging in sugar can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. It’s not just about added sugars in obvious items like desserts and sodas. Hidden sugars in everyday foods such as tomato sauce, flavored coffees, and low-fat yogurt contribute significantly to our daily sugar intake. This under-the-radar sugar consumption makes managing intake challenging.
Harmful Effects of Sugar on Children
Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of excessive sugar consumption. It can weaken their immune system, making them more susceptible to allergies, coughs, and colds. Acid reflux and croup-like symptoms are also common in children consuming too much sugar. This heightened sensitivity in children emphasizes the importance of monitoring and managing their sugar intake for their overall health and well-being.
When to Seek Medical Help
It’s important to recognize when sugar-related health issues require medical attention. Conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), ketoacidosis, and Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Nonketotic Syndrome (HHNS) are serious and require immediate medical care. Symptoms can range from fatigue and confusion to more severe signs like unconsciousness or seizures. If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, seeking medical help immediately is vital for effective treatment and recovery.
Signs of Hypoglycemia
- Rapid heart rate
- Uncontrolled hunger
- Tremors
- Cold sweat
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion
Signs of Hyperglycemia
- Need to urinate frequently
- High blood sugar levels
- Increased thirst
- Tingling sensation or numbness in your feet
- Feeling hungrier than usual
Signs of Ketoacidosis
- Increased urination
- Shortness of breath
- Dry mouth
- Dry or flushed skin
- Extreme thirst
- Rapid heartbeat
- Breath that smells fruity
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
Signs of HHNS
- Warm, dry skin that doesn’t sweat
- Sleepiness or confusion
- Blood sugar level over 600 mg/dL
- Extreme thirst
- Hallucinations
- Vision loss
- Weakness on one side of the body
While sugar adds a pleasant taste to our lives, moderation is key. Choosing natural sources of sugar like fruits and vegetables over refined sugars is a healthier choice. However, if you suspect an imbalance in your blood sugar levels, Physicians Premier, your ER in Cibolo, is ready to assist. Our team of skilled physicians and nurses, available 24/7, is equipped to treat sugar-related illnesses in patients of all ages, ensuring a quick recovery.
Sources:
“The sweet danger of sugar,” Harvard Health, https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/the-sweet-danger-of-sugar
“Too Much Sugar Can Cause Health Problems in Kids,” VeryWell Family, https://www.verywellfamily.com/is-too-much-sugar-harmful-to-kids-22337
“Diabetic ketoacidosis,” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-ketoacidosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20371551
“Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Nonketotic Syndrome,” Diabetes UK, https://www.diabetes.co.uk/diabetes-complications/hyperosmolar-hyperglycemic-nonketotic-syndrome.html
