Hey Lykkers, we all know the irresistible appeal of sweet treats—ice cream, pastries, and chocolate are favorites for many.

There's even a popular belief that "sweets can improve your mood," leading many to indulge without hesitation.

But, have you ever wondered if those sugar-filled delights might actually be doing more harm than good to your body? Experts weigh in on how these sweet temptations could be taking a toll on both our health and well-being. Let's dive into the truth behind sugar!

Sweet Treats Can Make You "Dull"

We all love a sweet bite now and then, but did you know that indulging too much in sugary foods might actually affect your skin? If you've been noticing more pimples on your face lately, take a moment to reflect—has your sweet tooth been acting up?

There is clear evidence showing that consuming too many sugary foods can worsen acne. The reason? The more sugar we eat, the more active our sebaceous glands become. This leads to an overgrowth of acne-causing bacteria, which results in more fatty acids being released. These fatty acids cling to the inside of our pores, making it harder for them to shed naturally and leading to breakouts.

Additionally, the metabolism of sugar in our bodies requires B vitamins, and consuming too much sugar depletes these vitamins, which can contribute to acne as well. So, if you want smoother, healthier skin, consider cutting back on sugar and opting for foods rich in B vitamins like dairy, eggs, lean meats.

According to the “2016 Chinese Dietary Guidelines,” the daily intake of added sugar should not exceed 50 grams, and ideally, it should be under 25 grams. For those looking for a healthier option, focus on foods that are low in sugar or free of added sugars.

Sugary Foods Can Actually Make You More Tired

You've probably heard the idea that sweets can lift your spirits. It's common to grab a sugary snack when we feel tired or down, thinking it'll provide a quick energy boost. But, does it really work like that?

Experts explain that while sugar can briefly calm your mood, it doesn't last long. High-sugar foods are absorbed quickly by our digestive system, leading to a rapid spike in blood sugar followed by a sharp drop. This rollercoaster effect can leave you feeling even more drained and affect your emotional stability. So, that cake or sugary snack you reach for may be doing more harm than good in the long run.

In fact, research from Warwick University and Humboldt University in the UK and Germany found that too much sugar can actually make you feel more fatigued. They reviewed over 31 studies with nearly 1,300 adults and concluded that after eating sugar, people felt more tired, and their brain responses slowed down.

3 Situations Where Sugar is Worse for Your Health

We know that sweets aren't the best pick when you're feeling tired, but there are other moments when consuming sugary foods can actually harm your body. Here are three situations where you might want to skip the sweet stuff:

1. When You're Feeling Hot and Irritated

If you're experiencing symptoms of "heat" like mouth sores, eye pain, or irritability, sugary foods can make things worse. Too much sugar depletes your body's B vitamins, which exacerbates these symptoms. Additionally, sugary foods can impact your appetite and make you feel bloated, hindering your ability to get the nutrition you need.

2. During Your Menstrual Cycle

During the monthly cycle, pain is often caused by uterine contractions and blood vessel constriction. Since sugary foods can interfere with the absorption of vitamins and minerals that help relax muscles and alleviate cramps, indulging in sweets during this time may worsen your discomfort. Sugar can also cause blood sugar imbalances, which in turn mess with your hormone levels and exacerbate the symptoms of Pre-menstrual syndrome.

3. When You're Hungry

Have you ever been really hungry and grabbed a sugary snack? This can be problematic. When you're on an empty stomach, sugar is absorbed almost immediately, causing a spike in blood sugar levels. This sudden surge isn't ideal, especially for those who have trouble controlling their blood sugar. A quick rise in blood sugar can damage proteins in your body and increase the risk of chronic diseases over time.

How to Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings the Right Way

Experts suggest a few key principles to keep in mind when indulging in sweet treats to minimize the negative effects on your health.

1. Eat Sweets Before Meals

Unlike in Western countries where dessert is commonly served after a meal, it's better to enjoy your sweets before eating. In China, where we have a different metabolic process, eating sugar-heavy foods after a meal can overburden your metabolism and contribute to weight gain. Eating a sweet treat before your main meal also helps you avoid overeating.

2. Eat Within 48 Hours

If you're enjoying cakes or pastries, try not to overindulge. A small serving goes a long way! And remember, sweets from bakeries or dessert shops often lack ingredient labels, so be mindful of how much you're eating. If you've bought more than you can finish, refrigerate them and consume them within 48 hours.

3. Pair Sweets with Water or Tea

If you're enjoying something sweet, avoid pairing it with sugary drinks. Instead, opt for water, tea, or a light herbal infusion. Drinking plain water or tea with your sweets can help reduce the sugary taste, make you feel fuller, and help balance your blood sugar levels.

4. Have More Fruits and Vegetables in the Next Meal

After indulging in sugary snacks, it's a good idea to focus on the next meal by including more fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods. This helps your body process and eliminate the sugar you've consumed while replenishing nutrients that are needed for optimal health.

So, Lykkers, while a sweet treat every now and then isn't the worst thing in the world, moderation is key. We hope this article sheds some light on the hidden effects of sugar and helps you make more informed choices when it comes to satisfying your cravings. Let's all take care of our bodies and enjoy the occasional treat in a balanced way! What's your favorite sweet treat, and how do you manage your sugar intake? Let us know in the comments!