Can you get diabetes from eating too much sugar?

Diabetes, one of the most widespread and debilitating diseases in contemporary society. According to the last National Health Survey, carried out in 2017, in Chile 12.3% of the population suffers from diabetes . However, the Covid-19 pandemic has significantly increased these figures in the country.

Symptoms of diabetes can vary, but some of the most common include include excessive thirst, frequent urination, persistent fatigue, blurred vision and unexplained weight loss . Despite widespread awareness of the disease, diagnoses continue to increase, highlighting the critical need for education and preventative measures.

Most people know roughly what diabetes is, but fewer people understand diabetes in depth, and how diet and physical activity can be decisive in avoiding the most common form of the disease: type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes comes in two main forms: type 1 and type 2. In both cases, the body faces difficulty regulating blood sugar levels, leading to long-term complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes and other vital organs.

Type 1 is characterized by autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The exact reasons for this autoimmune process are not yet fully understood, but genetic and environmental factors can trigger type 1 diabetes. It is estimated that between 5 and 10 percent of people have type 1 diabetes and, although it can be treated successfully, it is a chronic condition that cannot be prevented.

On the other hand, type 2 diabetes is a treatable and preventable disease and 90-95% of people suffer from this variety of disease. This diabetes is usually linked to insulin resistance and the body’s inability to produce enough insulin to overcome this resistance, resulting in higher than normal blood sugar levels. Genetic and lifestyle factors, such as obesity and lack of physical activity, are associated with it.

According to the mayo clinic , Eating healthy foods in moderation and sticking to regular meal times is essential but avoiding certain foods is also essential, he emphasizes USA Today.

Usually, when we think of diabetes, we associate it with sugar. This association is somewhat true, Although excessive sugar consumption does not directly cause diabetes, it is linked to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Insulin resistance, common in type 2 diabetes, may be linked to excessive consumption of sugar and refined carbohydrates, as well as a sedentary lifestyle. When we eat foods high in sugars and refined carbohydrates, the body responds by increasing blood sugar levels. Over time, andThis can contribute to the development of insulin resistance, in which cells do not respond properly to insulin.

“Despite what many people hear, sugar does not necessarily cause diabetes,” says Kelly Jones MS, RD, CSSD, performance dietitian and owner and founder of Student-Athlete Nutrition in USA today. She says that type 2 diabetes is a multifactorial disease, “with risk factors such as genetics and ethnicity, physical activity level, blood pressure and heart health, smoking and even chronic stress.”

However, the American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars in the diet as a way to “potentially prevent” type 2 diabetes, because excess sugar can contribute to illness in many ways notes Usa Today.

Obesity, also associated with excessive consumption of calories and sugar, is another risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Several studies show that excess weight is linked to a significantly increased risk of diabetes. “More than 70% of the obese population is insulin resistant” Lori Shemek, PhD, a Dallas-based certified nutritional consultant and author of “How to Fight FATflammation,” told USA Today.

To reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and maintain good overall health, it is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, low in added sugars and refined carbohydrates, as well as to lead an active lifestyle including regular physical activity.

There US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends staying below 50 grams of added sugars each day, or about 12 teaspoons of sugar. “It’s important to differentiate between added sugars and natural sugars,” says Jones.

It is important to note that these are general limits and individual needs may vary. Additionally, the type of sugars is also relevant; Added sugars in processed foods and sugary drinks should be limited while sugars naturally found in fruits and dairy products are generally considered part of a healthy diet.

“Sugary drinks have also been linked to diabetes,” Natalie Allen, MEd, RDN, associate clinical professor and team dietitian in the Missouri State University athletics department, told USA Today.

Other foods can also cause type 2 diabetes. Studies pointed out that people who only eat two servings of red meat per week may have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to people who eat fewer portions, and the risk increases with higher consumption.

Processed meats and refined carbohydrates found in foods such as white bread, cookies, cakes and white rice are also associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Saturated and trans fats, lack of fiber, excessive calorie consumption and excess alcohol are also factors that can put your health at risk.

“Diabetes is a complex disease and, although there is no exact cause,” says Allen, “Diet is one piece of the puzzle.” Adopting a balanced approach and maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity are essential for reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and promoting overall health. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized advice.