Everyone has food cravings occasionally, and often, the cravings are for sugar-heavy foods. While these cravings are common and may have little impact if indulged infrequently, the situation differs significantly for diabetics. So what occurs when a diabetic indulges in too much sugar?
The extent of harm resulting from consuming excessive amounts of sugar depends on the amount consumed and the frequency. Regular overconsumption of sugar can have severe implications on health and, in extreme cases, can be life-threatening.
Comparing Reactions of Diabetics and Non-Diabetics
Following a sugar binge, immediate consequences are likely due to the ‘sugar spike', as the body signals that there's too much glucose in the bloodstream.
A non-diabetic person with a healthy insulin response can quickly release insulin to manage this excess glucose.
However, the response of a diabetic person is different. A type 1 diabetic's response largely relies on their insulin administration. A type 2 diabetic, who may not be taking insulin, will experience prolonged elevated blood glucose levels, presenting a host of issues and risks.
This is because, despite insulin being released in response to the sugar influx, the insulin-resistant cells don't respond effectively, leading to a bloodstream flooded with glucose.
Immediate and Short-term Consequences of Excessive Sugar Intake
Polyuria (Excessive Urination): When there's too much glucose in the blood, the body tries to remove it through frequent urination. Kidneys normally absorb some glucose back into the bloodstream, but for diabetics, the kidneys add excess glucose to the urine. To create more urine, the kidneys draw more water from the body.
Polydipsia (Excessive Thirst): As a result of polyuria, the body tries to rehydrate, leading to excessive thirst. The brain receives signals of dehydration from the cells and triggers the urge to drink more fluids. People often misinterpret their excessive thirst and urination as signs of drinking too much, not realizing that these symptoms are caused by high sugar levels.
Increased Hunger: For type 2 diabetics, muscle cells are less responsive to insulin, so glucose stays in the blood instead of entering the cells for energy. When cells can't access glucose, they signal for sustenance. The brain interprets these signals as hunger.
There are other acute complications that can occur after a sugar binge, such as headaches, fatigue, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and dry mouth.
Long-term Implications
Continual high intake of sugar can have damaging effects on the body's organs. Untreated, high sugar levels can cause cellular dysfunction, exacerbating insulin resistance and other diabetes symptoms.
Regular consumption of sugary foods significantly increases the risk of stroke and heart attack. Many sugary foods are also rich in unhealthy fats, which can lead to inflamed and clogged blood vessels.
So, think carefully before giving in to the temptation of sugary foods. Regardless of whether you're diabetic or not, these foods can harm your health.
