A wide belief is that sugar is not healthy for you – but why is sugar bad for your heart? Learn why too much of it can negatively affect your heart and health.
Even though a lot of people love sugar, it is not surprising that it has a bad reputation when it comes to health. Unlike healthier “taste enhancers,” sugar doesn’t provide the necessary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients you need.
Furthermore, consuming an excess of sugar can increase your risk of heart disease no matter how fit you are. But are all sugars bad for you? Are “healthy” sugars such as coconut, agave, and honey also bad for your health?
Natural vs. Added Sugar
Foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy have naturally occurring sugars in addition to their nutritious content. While getting your sugar from these sources is not bad, it’s a different story when it comes to added sugars.
According to a 15-year study, your risk of heart disease increases by 38% for those who consume more added sugar. In other words, the more added sugar you consume, the higher your risk of cardiovascular disease.
The American Heart Association recommends a daily limit of 100 calories from added sugars for women and 150 for men. Currently, the average American adult consumes around 272 calories from added sugars.
In addition to an increase in calories, consuming more sugar can lead to high blood pressure and higher blood sugar. If you want to know how much sugar you consume every day, check out Healthy Food America’s Sugar Overload Calculator.
Other Types of Sugar
If you eat foods that are higher on the glycemic index, chances are you are increasing your blood sugar. So if you’re looking to lower your blood sugar, then make it a goal to eat sweeteners that are lower in the glycemic index.
For example, you can consume natural sugar instead of table sugar – plus you’ll get more nutritional benefits. You may have to change the amounts, but by using natural sugars, you can make delicious food without the repercussions.
The Outlook
When taking care of your health, it’s important that you take sugar consumption into account. A simple way to manage your sugar intake is by limiting processed foods and eating whole ingredients instead. While it may take some time to get used to, it will pay off in the end.
Another way you can promote your heart health is to take daily supplements like HeartBeet Complete. With ingredients like beetroot powder and turmeric, it promotes your body’s ability to increase circulation and boost your heart health.
Try HeartBeet Complete alongside a diet that is free from added sugars to give your heart the support it needs.
