How much sugar is too much sugar? Here are some signs and symptoms that may indicate your body is consuming unhealthy amounts of sweets.

The festival officially begins with Raksha Bandhan. We just celebrated Navratri and Dussehra and Diwali is just around the corner. It's that time of the year when homes are lit up, the aroma of freshly made traditional Indian dishes puts us to shame. The festive season often brings an abundance of sweets and sugary foods, making it easy to overeat. However, consuming too much sugar can cause various health problems.

It is imperative to enjoy the festive spirit, indulge in traditional delicacies but also maintain boundaries with health.

5 Signs You're Eating Too Much Sugar

1. Increased cravings for sweets: If you're constantly craving sugary foods, it could be a sign that you're eating too much sugar. Consuming too much sugar affects your body's insulin levels and energy balance, making you crave more sugar.
2. Weight gain: Consuming too much sugar, especially sugary drinks and processed foods, can lead to weight gain. If you notice unexplained weight gain, it may be time to evaluate your sugar intake. Sugar is calorie-dense but lacks nutritional value, making it easy to consume too many calories without filling up.
3. Fatigue and energy crash: This is a major sign that you are over-riding on sugar. Consuming too much sugar can cause energy levels to fluctuate. Eating sugary foods can give you a quick energy boost, followed by a crash and leave you feeling tired and lethargic. This cycle can make it difficult to maintain consistent energy throughout the day.
4. Skin problems: Too much sugar can cause skin problems like acne or premature aging. Consuming too much sugar can lead to inflammation and glycation, which can damage collagen and elastin in the skin.
5. Mood Swings: Eating too much sugar affects your mood. Rapidly rising blood sugar levels can cause irritability, anxiety, and mood swings. If you find yourself feeling moody or anxious, consider evaluating your sugar intake.

5 tips to manage sugar during the festive season

• Mindful eating can help you enjoy foods without overindulging. Take the time to truly enjoy festive foods, which can reduce the urge to snack mindlessly.
• Choose healthy dessert options, such as fruit-based desserts or dark chocolate.
• Sometimes, thirst can be mistaken for hunger or cravings for sweets. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and cut back on sugary snacks.
• Avoid sugary drinks like soda, sweet tea, and holiday cocktails. Choose water, herbal tea or sparkling water with a splash of lemon instead.
• If you know you're going to a holiday gathering, plan your meals and snacks in advance. Bringing a healthy dish to share can help you control what you eat and ensure nutritious options are available.

Knowing the signs of high sugar intake and implementing these tips will help you enjoy the festive season without compromising your health. By making conscious choices, you can enjoy the festivities while maintaining balance in your diet. Remember, patience is key to enjoying the holiday season in a healthy way!