Medically reviewed by Dr Naveen Chandran
Sweet temptations are everywhere! That little baker's place you love, the front pages of the newspaper, the delicious television ads and even in the hands of the candy-man near the children's park. These temptations dominate our choices, but the impact of these sugary treats on our overall health cannot be overstated.
The major effect is on weight and dental health, which is very obvious. But have you ever thought about what sugar can do to your skin and how quitting sugar can help your skin glow?
Well, if you wish to know, then you are at the right place.
What comes to your mind when you hear 'sugar-free lifestyle?' Primarily, you must have the notion of no sugar at all, and the idea of this is sufficient enough to give nervous jitters to all sugar lovers.
But that's not true. A sugar-free diet means eliminating processed sugar from your diet, i.e. eliminating sugar that you add during preparation or processing to enhance the flavour or increase the shelf life. They can be found in sodas, candies, baked goods and packed snacks.
However, natural sugar in whole foods like fruits and vegetables is not harmful.
Did You Know?
According to the National Center of Biotechnology Information (NCBI), there is evidence that sugar-free products may not be as sugar-free as they seem.
Opting for a sugar-free lifestyle mitigates numerous health risks associated with sugar consumption. This will help in better weight management, improved energy levels and lower the risk of developing conditions like obesity, type-2 diabetes and heart-related issues.
Emphasising excluding added sugar rather than natural sugar recognises the nutritional value of whole foods. For example, fruits offer essential nutrients and fibre along with sweetness. This approach will encourage you to make informed decisions about the sources of sugar in your diet.
There are several advantages of a sugar-free diet. Read on to learn more about the benefits of a sugar-free diet.
Achieving clear skin is not a short-cut skill. It takes a lot of consistent habits, including lifestyle and dietary changes. What you eat is a major contributor to your skin health decisions. This is due to the exclusive connection between your gut and your skin. Do you wish to know in depth about this connection and how Ayurveda can help you achieve its balance? Then do not forget to scroll through this article - 'Unlocking the Gut-Skin Connection: A Holistic Approach to Achieving Clear Skin'
Out of all the diets, sugar is one of the major factors that causes your skin to lose its healthy glow. How does sugar affect your skin?
When you start reducing your sugar intake, it slows down ageing, preserves skin elasticity and collagen thus reducing sagging, wrinkles and creases associated with ageing. While it won;t erase the existing wrinkles, reducing sugar definitely slows your skin ageing.
Meanwhile, try Face Yoga for your age-related skin issues.
So, are you ready to stun the world with that radiance and youthfulness?
Read on to learn how reducing sugar consumption can help you improve your overall well-being, which also, in turn, helps you get a better skin glow!
Did you ever notice how sugar plays a role in lifting your mood? Devouring sugary delights may give a quick energy boost, but it's short-lasting as a rapid sugar crash often follows it. This crash leaves you tired and irritable.
Cut down on sugar, choose fibre-rich whole grains instead, and experience a sustained energy release. It's not just about nutrition; it's a gateway to a more stable mood and uplifting spirits.
Who all are game for some elevation of spirits?
Indulging in a sugary meal can provide a temporary energy boost reminiscent of the euphoria of certain recreational substances. However, this surge is fleeting.
On the other hand, adopting a low-sugar diet focuses on slow-burning carbohydrates and proteins, such as bananas, apples, and peanut butter, which can supply a sustained energy source without the subsequent blood sugar crash. This approach allows you to satiate your taste buds and energise your body steadily, avoiding the rollercoaster effect linked to sugary intake.
This is another benefit of going sugar-free.
Sustain energy on a sugar-free diet through whole foods, regular balanced meals, protein-rich snacks, consistent hydration, mindful complex carbohydrate choices, and prioritising quality sleep. Collectively, these practical tips foster stable energy levels, eliminating the highs and lows associated with sugary consumption.
Your safety is in your hands. The food you eat is a brooding ground for bacteria, thus giving rise to dental plaque and acid, eroding tooth enamel with high sugar consumption. This paves the way for cavities, gum irritation and gum diseases. Minimising sugar intake is vital for preserving dental health and avoiding serious health risks.
Diverse sugars like glucose, fructose, sucrose and lactose are present in foods. Whilst glucose is used by other body cells for energy, fructose is primarily processed by the liver, leading to fat production. Excessive consumption, especially of sugary drinks and foods, can contribute to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease—a diet low in sugar or eating no sugar benefits in preventing and reversing this condition.
High-sugar diets are linked to an elevated risk of heart disease, heart attacks, stroke, and high blood pressure. This risk is compounded by the familiar pairing of high-sugar foods with saturated fats, contributing to weight gain and obesity. A sugar-free diet is good for weight loss and reduces the associated health risks, promoting overall cardiovascular well-being.
To add a little seasoning on your skin care journey, try these amazing Ayurvedic Skin Care Tips from Nirva - 'Ayurvedic Skincare: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Radiance'
Excess sugar jeopardises health, with the NHS recommending a daily cap of 30 grams, equivalent to five teaspoonss, taking charge of your sugar intake actively enhances overall health.
Ready to make a positive change considering sugar-free lifestyle benefits? By reducing sugar, you can improve your health and have a lower risk of health complications. How will you start your journey to a sugar-free diet today?
Sudden sugar withdrawal may feel uncomfortable initially. You may experience headaches, irritability, fatigue. These symptoms subside within a week as your body starts adjusting to reduced sugar intakes.
Yes, quitting sugar and sugary diets is a major contributor to your weight loss journey. Reducing sugary treats will lower your calorie intake and decrease your cravings. It also promotes your metabolic function, contributing to a healthier weight over time.
Your health journey is in our hands once you join our programme. You will always be supported by our health coaches and any withdrawal issues you face during the journey will be addressed by them. They are available to you 24*7. Moreover, your journey will be personalised according to your body type and diet style. You will be able to follow a healthy diet schedule curated by the nutrition experts at Nirva.
Ruchika Sehgal
Meet Ruchika Sehgal, your guide to a balanced life. Educator turned lifestyle and wellness writer, she blends her love for literature, culinary arts, and music into transformative words that inspire healthier, happier living.
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