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7 signs of low immunity due to excessive sugar

7 signs of low immunity due to excessive sugar

When eaten in moderation, sugar may have some benefits, such as improving one’s energy levels. However, excess consumption can have damaging effects on one’s immune system. It could result in the growth of unhealthy bacteria and yeast, which could compromise one’s immunity and lead to adverse effects on one’s overall well-being. So if the immune system is affected due to excessive sugar intake, here are seven signs one might experience.

Regular cold
Generally, adults may experience about two or three colds each year. People also usually recover in seven to ten days after falling ill. Recovery is possible because the immune system develops antibodies in about three to four days to fight the cold-causing germs. However, when immunity is weakened due to factors like too much sugar intake, it could affect the ways in which one’s immune system develops antibodies to tackle these invaders. So if one experiences regular colds, or develops one that does not run its usual course, it could indicate a problem with their immune system that requires an expert’s opinion.

Stress
Stress might be triggered by several factors, including significant life changes, constant worrying, and possibly work. However, if one finds themselves feeling high levels of stress for prolonged periods of time, it could indicate a weak immune system. Consuming too much sugar can lead to blood sugar spikes and drops, which in turn could lead to symptoms of stress like insomnia, depression, low energy, and inflammation. Long-term stress could further weaken the responses of the immune system and result in more severe health conditions.

Constipation
The consumption of sugary foods could lead to constipation. These foods usually lack fluids that improves the functioning of fiber in the body. This could result in a restricted ability to pass stools. Furthermore, when one is constipated, it could slow down the peristaltic action within the intestines. The process is crucial for the absorption of essential nutrients, some of which are needed to support the immune system. Constipation can also affect the balance of healthy bacteria in the digestive system, which can further impact one’s immunity. So if one is constipated, it is likely that their immune system is compromised due to excessive sugar intake.

Diarrhea
Another digestive problem one may experience due to a weakened immune system is diarrhea. The symptoms could last more than two to four weeks, which is a warning sign that the problematic immune system is damaging the lining of the small intestine or digestive tract. Such conditions must be diagnosed by an expert immediately to avoid further complications.

Slow healing of wounds
People may suffer from wounds due to factors like accidents, injuries, and surgery. The skin immediately goes into damage control mode and sends nutrient-rich blood to the injury to help regenerate a new layer of skin. Sometimes the wounds take time to heal because of genetics and age. However, slow healing of wounds could be an indicator of a weakened immune system due to excessive sugar intake. If the immune system is affected, it might not be able to properly transport nutrients to damaged regions, which would mean that wounds take longer time to heal.

Frequent infections
One has to have a healthy immune system to prevent viruses and other germs from affecting their overall health. But when one’s immunity is weakened due to factors like excessive sugar intake, they might be more prone to developing frequent infections. A few common signs of potential immunity issues include being affected by more than four ear infections in one year. Other signs are developing pneumonia twice in one year, and experiencing more than three episodes of bacterial sinusitis within a year.

Fatigue
Fatigue refers to the feeling of constant weakness or tiredness, which might be experienced physically, mentally, or both. It could affect most adults at some point in their lives. The common causes of fatigue include lifestyle habits and health complications. But if there is no underlying cause, one might want to consult with an expert about potential immune system problems. When the immune system is impacted, it also affects one’s energy levels. This happens because the body is trying to conserve energy to fuel the immune system, to help it fight off germs. So the lack of energy here may trigger signs like fatigue.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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10 signs of heart disease due to excess sugar intake

The term ‘heart disease’ is used to refer to a variety of conditions, such as coronary heart disease, stroke, peripheral heart disease, aortic disease, and others. These cardiovascular conditions are serious and put one’s life in grave danger. Learning their signs and symptoms can help recognize these conditions in their nascent stages and seek early treatment for a better chance of recovery. Thus, some early signs of heart disease to watch out for include: Chest pain Any discomfort or pain felt in the front of the body, in the region between the neck and the upper abdomen, is classified as chest pain. It is one of the most common symptoms that occurs due to poor blood flow to the heart or due to a heart attack. The severity of this pain may differ from person to person. During a heart attack, this pain may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, general weakness, change in skin color, extreme anxiety, lightheadedness, loss of consciousness, nausea, vomiting, palpitations, or sweating. Shortness of breath A weakened heart can disrupt blood flow and cause blood to back up in the veins that go from the lungs to the heart. This fluid can enter the lungs and cause shortness of breath or even a choking sensation and may lead to heart failure. Coughing or wheezing Fluid buildup in the lungs could also lead to coughing or wheezing. Some people may cough up pink or red mucus. Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet Weakened blood pumping can also slow down blood flow and cause blood to pool in the veins running through the legs, causing swelling, pain, and discomfort in the legs, ankles, and feet. Feeling sweaty It’s normal to feel hot and sweaty during the summer months. However, if this sweat is accompanied by chest pain, call an ambulance or head to the hospital immediately. Stomach pain or indigestion A burning sensation in the chest and stomach could also be a sign of a heart attack or cardiovascular problem. However, it can be tough to distinguish between heartburn and disease as the symptoms vary from person to person. When unsure, seek professional assistance and get tested to rule out any confusion. Arm pain A shooting pain that runs down the left arm can also be an indicator of a heart attack. If the pain does not go away, visit the emergency department immediately. Fatigue Fatigue is associated with several health conditions. While, in some cases, it may be an indicator that one needs to rest, it could also indicate heart troubles, especially when it is sudden, severe, or impedes daily activities. Palpitations When the heart is unable to pump blood normally, it may increase its pace to supply blood throughout the body. This can cause palpitations, that is, the sensation of a rising or throbbing heartbeat. It could also be a sign of arrhythmia. Poor blood supply to extremities The buildup of cholesterol and plaque in the arteries can also slow down blood supply. While it may not be characterized as heart disease, it increases the risk of developing one in the future. Poor blood supply in the legs could lead to pain, aching, burning, fatigue, or discomfort in the muscles of the thighs, calves, and feet. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the country. People living with diabetes or high blood sugar are at greater risk of developing a heart condition or having a stroke because high blood sugar damages the blood vessels and nerves that control the heart. It then gives rise to other conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high triglycerides; since none of these have any symptoms, they can often go unreported until much later. Diabetes, however, has several early warning signs. Some of these include increased thirst (polydipsia), dry mouth, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, slow-healing sores and cuts, frequent skin or vaginal yeast infections, and in some cases, chronic constipation. Making lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains and cutting down on processed foods, trans fats, and sugary drinks can help. Exercising regularly and reducing stress levels can also control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

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Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that causes extreme tiredness and fatigue that does not go away even after resting. The causes of the condition are yet to be known. However, there are some theories indicate several factors which include: Viral infection Stress Or several factors in unison Once the symptoms are identified and the condition is diagnosed, treatment can be taken to get relief from symptoms. Understanding all aspects of the condition, including its stages, diagnosis, symptoms, and prevention can help in managing it effectively. Different stages and phases of chronic fatigue syndrome The patients of chronic fatigue syndrome undergo four phases of the condition. Their response towards the treatment can also vary greatly depending on the phase that they are going through. These phases are: Phase I: Crisis or trauma Phase II: Stabilization Phase III: Resolution Phase IV: Integration During all the phases, a chronic fatigue syndrome patient undergoes some physical, psychological, and social changes that are easily noticeable. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome No one test can diagnose a patient with chronic fatigue syndrome. This is because the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome resemble several other health conditions. Therefore, a lot of patience is required for the diagnosis of the condition.
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Depression is a mental health disorder that results in bouts of continuous sadness. A clinical mood disorder can lead to physical and emotional suffering, and can also change one’s behavior. Frustration, anger outbursts, lack of energy, sleep issues, anxiety, disinterest in eating, concentration issues, and suicidal thoughts are also common symptoms of this disease. Depending on its severity, the illness can challenge one to lead a normal life, too. Diagnosis There are many different methods a medical professional can use to determine if one is affected by depression. Psychiatric evaluation is the most common way to determine if one is suffering from the disease. The mental health doctor will interview the affected person to understand their thought process, mood, and other symptoms. Some doctors may compare symptoms with the ones listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This makes it easier for them to understand the condition. A physical exam is also performed to determine if any physical health issue is caused due to this mental condition. Stages of depression Depending on the level of sadness, the stages of depression can be divided into five stages: Stage 1 Even though the signs of mental disease are hard to miss, for most people, it starts with denial.
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The pancreas is an important organ in our body that produces insulin. It is required to help the glucose pass to our cells from the blood. That is how energy is created, which is the fuel we require to function. When the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, the glucose level in one’s blood increases. This can result in diabetes, which can lead to organ damage. Types of diabetes There are mainly three kinds of this disease. Type 1 diabetes It can be most commonly seen in children and adolescents. Having said that, it can occur at any age. The insulin production of one’s body decreases with this condition, and they require daily injections to control their glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes Around 90% of people who have diabetes suffer from this type. It is most commonly seen in adults and results in one’s body failing to properly use the insulin that is produced. It can be kept under control by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but one may also require medicine in the advanced stages. Gestational diabetes This can be seen during pregnancy if the glucose level in one’s blood increases. It can affect both the child and the mother.
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