The holiday season brings about cheer, festivity, family time…and more than a few sugary treats! You shouldn’t have to avoid your favorite holiday treats altogether, but indulging in moderation will benefit your health in countless ways. You’ve probably heard about the more mainstream health consequences of a high sugar intake, like an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes and tooth decay, but did you know it can contribute to certain nutrient deficiencies?
Read on to learn about the link between excessive sugar consumption and nutrient deficiencies. We hope this information helps you make empowered health decisions throughout the holiday season!
Which Nutrients Are Impacted By Excessive Sugar?
Consuming excessive sugar can compromise your body’s stores of multiple essential nutrients, including vitamin C, B vitamins, electrolytes, and omega-3s.
- Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that bolsters your immunity. It’s particularly crucial throughout the holiday season when the flu and common cold tend to run rampant. Vitamin C and sugar both depend on insulin to be absorbed into your cells. So, when you enjoy too many sugary treats, that sugar may keep your cells from effectively absorbing vitamin C.
- B vitamins are essential in the process of converting sugar into energy. When your sugar intake increases, your body’s B vitamin needs also increase. This contributes to the sluggish, fatigued feeling that tends to accompany eating a lot of sugar.
- Electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and calcium play a major role in energy and immunity. Unfortunately, excess sugar throws them out of balance, leading to diminished immune function and cellular health.
- Omega-3 fatty acids are a “healthy” type of fat that benefits a wide range of bodily processes and helps manage inflammation. Sugar dampens the benefits of omega-3s in the body, which can lead to increased systemic inflammation and, as a result, diminished overall wellness.
Ready to prioritize your well-being this holiday season? Schedule an appointment at Body Flow Wellness today!