Sugar and a healthy immune system do not mix, especially during our current COVID-19 crisis. Eating or drinking too much sugary or processed foods can cause negative effects on immune system health. Bacteria, fungi and viruses thrive on sugar as the major source of energy which means that consuming too much processed or sugary foods weakens your immune system, while making you vulnerable to infections. Let’s discus some of the effects of consuming too much processed or sugary foods on your immune system. 

Heath Issues Caused by Excess Sugar

1.  Processed Sugar Damages Immune System Cells

Yes, it is true that the body needs sugar in form of glucose. Sugar is found in many natural foods which gives the body energy as required, but when it comes to processed sugar, it endangers the immune system cells that fight bacteria. When this cell is weakened, the immune system is no more as powerful as it used to be.

2. Triggers Low-grade Inflammation

Foods with high level of refined sugar breaks the defense wall of the body and spikes up low-graded inflammation which also increases in mass. When this inflammation is triggered, the body is attacked by chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

3. Causes Kidney Stones

Too much fructose is associated with increased risk of kidney stone. The more refined sugar you consume, the higher the concentration of sugar that comes out in your urine. This is very peculiar to people living with diabetes. It causes more danger to your immune system.

4. Increases the Risk of Diabetes

Eating too much processed or sugary foods puts the body in a much greater risk of diabetes. When blood glucose levels are elevated over long periods of time, type 2 Diabetes symptoms can occur, therefore, causing hindrance to blood flow in the body. When blood flow to all parts of the body is hindered, the immune system becomes weakened and the body is vulnerable to illness.

5. Doubles the Risk of Heart Disease

If you begin to feel chest pain, chest tightness, chest pressure and chest discomfort (angina), they are symptoms of heart disease. Research has shown that refined sugar and processed foods are one of the major causes of heart diseases. Apart from its high risk to the health, it does not have any nutritional value. Excess processed sugar causes high blood pressure, weight gain, inflammation and heart related diseases. This causes degradation of tissues and immune system weakness.

Conclusion

It’s recommended that you stay away from refined sugar and too much processed foods. Seventy five to 100 grams of sugar solution is considered a risk for your immune system. A can of soda contains about 39g of sugar so if you drink two cans of soda, your immune system is already at risk. Keep your sugar consumption low and healthy especially in a time when COVID-19 coronavirus is upon us. Replace processed foods with Whole Foods. Consider incorporating foods like citrus, vegetables, meats, ginger, almond, green tea, turmeric and shell food into your diet. This will keep your immune system stronger and healthier.