We all indulge our sweet-tooth from time to time. We eat sugary treats as a reward, and sometimes we consume sugary foods as comfort food. But consuming that comfort food could have a downside.
A number of studies in recent years have linked high-sugar diets to instances of depression. A more recent study found that men who consume more than 67 grams of sugar a day were 23 percent more likely to develop anxiety and/or depression compared to men who consumed less than 40 grams of sugar daily.
Additionally, the results of a 2016 study found a link between high-sugar diets and depression in postmenopausal women. Data revealed that the higher the women’s dietary glycemic index, the higher their risk of depression.
“Sweet food has been found to induce positive feelings in the short-term,” said lead author Anika Knüppel, a PhD student at the Institute of Epidemiology & Public Health at University College London. “People experiencing low mood may eat sugary foods in the hope of alleviating negative feelings. Our study suggests a high intake of sugary foods is more likely to have the opposite effect on mental health in the long-term.”
In fact, a 2002 study that included subjects from six countries concluded that a significant correlation exists between sugar consumption and the prevailing annual rate of depression.
Eating large amounts of sugar contributes to many problems in our bodies including insulin issues, suppressed brain activity, and insufficient dopamine levels, to name just a few. Eating sugar in excess can also promote chronic inflammation which can affect your immune system.
Am I saying never to eat sugar? No. But I am suggesting that a healthy, balanced diet high in whole fruit, fiber, and vegetables is more beneficial to your health than having that candy bar.
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