Feeling bloated? Breaking out? Can’t seem to focus? A diet loaded with processed, sugary foods can cause inflammation in the body, erratic energy levels and can even lead to a sugar addiction. According to the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, over 40% of the average American’s diet is made up of empty sugars.
What are the Signs that You’re Eating Too Much Sugar?
Though you likely know that controlling your sugar is a smart recovery move, it may not be that easy. Manufacturers sneak the white stuff into a bunch of so-called “healthy” foods, including flavored yogurt, nut butters, and protein bars. These are called added sugars. According to the CDC, added sugars are sugars and syrups that companies add to foods or drinks when they make, process, or prepare the food. It’s even found in foods that don’t taste sweet, like deli meat. Moreover, studies have shown that there are nearly 60 different names for sugar.
So beyond reading food labels, what’s the best way to monitor your intake of sugar, which, according to the World Health Organization, is about six teaspoons of the sweet stuff per day? Listen to your body! Here are some common warning signs:
- Your skin: A high-sugar diet can cause inflammation throughout the body. The result: acne.
- Your energy: They do not call it a sugar crash for nothing. Loading up on high levels of sugar can create a sudden rise and fall in blood sugar levels.
- Your teeth: Cavities are a surefire sign of sugar overload. The sweet stuff causes the bacteria in your mouth to produce the acid that eventually damages your teeth and leads to tooth decay.
- Your tastebuds: Eating too much sugar basically builds up a tolerance so foods won’t taste as sweet and you’ll need more and more sugar to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Your mental health: Too much sweet stuff can wreak havoc on your mood, leading to anxiety and depression. Plus, dips in blood sugar can cause mental fog.
Nutrition Therapy at Red Oak Recovery
Once you know the signs that you’re eating too much sugar, it’s time to get help. Our nutritional therapy program, as part of our drug and alcohol treatment for young adult males, approaches food and eating holistically. We also offer a variety of other therapy programs, such as:
- Experiential therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Meditation therapy
- Yoga therapy
The food we prepare is designed to heal the body from the malnutrition and dehydration that substance use can cause.
In addition to helping you through nutritional therapy, we also offer addiction treatments for several substances. Substance use is a rising concern in the United States and beyond. Furthermore, millions of people are struggling with an addiction, but many of them do not get treatment. We offer treatments for many alcohol and drug-related addictions, including:
Through our programs, you can get on the path to sobriety, and free yourself from drugs and/or alcohol. To learn more about our addiction treatment programs, call Red Oak Recovery today at 866.457.7590.
