Giving Up Sugar? Here's What Happens to Your Body After a Year
Too much sugar has many negative consequences, including weight gain and diabetes. But what would happen if we gave up sugar for an entire year?
Sugar is increasingly seen in a negative light, and the truth is, it's not a necessary source of energy for our brains to function optimally. The body can convert carbohydrates into glucose on its own, we don't need to add sugar to our diets.
According to Stefan Kabisch from the German Institute of Human Nutrition, the human body can easily function without sugar. Completely cutting it out doesn't create significant stress on the metabolism. However, the psychological withdrawal from sugar can come with irritability, fatigue, and headaches. Your taste buds also need to adjust to a sugar-free diet, which includes forgoing sugar in things like coffee or yogurt.
What Happens When You Quit Sugar
People define quitting sugar differently: some cut out only obvious sources, while others eliminate fruit sugars and hidden sugars in processed foods.
One day without sugar
No major physical changes occur, though people who rely on sugar for energy may feel a lack of usual energy, and cravings for sweets might increase.
One week without sugar
More energy, better sleep, and fresher breath: Just a few days in, positive effects begin to show. With a more balanced metabolism and stable blood sugar levels, you may notice more energy and improved sleep. Clothes may start to feel looser, and your breath will be fresher since mouth bacteria can't thrive as much without sugar. Conversely, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, headaches, mood swings and cravings. These should subside after a few weeks.
One month without sugar
Fewer skin issues, more stable blood pressure, weight loss: Improvements become measurable. You may experience fewer breakouts, more stable blood pressure, and noticeable weight loss.
One year without sugar
Reduced disease risk: Your taste buds become more sensitive, and cravings for sugar decrease. Long-term sugar avoidance can lower the risk of obesity and diabetes. A U.S. study found that people with low sugar consumption had a 57% lower risk of obesity, 42% lower risk of diabetes, 47% lower risk of heart failure, and 34% lower risk of premature death.