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We all need sugar for energy, but too much, especially the refined kind, can cause serious health issues (hello diabetes). So here, we break down all you need to know about sugar and what happens when you quit sweets!

What is sugar?

It’s a generic name for sweet, soluble carbs used in nearly everything that we consume. But it comes in different forms. So if you’re the kind that checks nutritional facts or labels, anything that ends in “ose” is likely sugar.

Sugar basics

Remember, glucose is sugar that naturally occurs in plants and fruits, fructose is fruit sugar, sucrose is sugar found in stems of sugar cane and lactose or simply milk sugar.

How much are you supposed to take in a day?

37.5 grams (or 9 tbsps) for men and 25 grams (6 tbsps) for women. Stay within the limit and sugar can improve your mood, reduce anxiety and even increase self-esteem.

But when you take too much

Overconsumption of sugar over time can cause obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia and cavities!!! Also when your body can’t deal with the amount of sugar in your system, it’s converted to FAT. And it makes you look old; it causes inflammation and reduces effectiveness of collagen and elastin—proteins responsible for giving skin that supple and youthful glow.

So what sugar is safe to eat?

If it’s between a fruit and a chocolate bar, go for the fruit. But not too much because high levels of fructose = weight gain. And because sugary food can be physiologically addictive as many drugs per nerdfitness.com. Sugar addiction is real!

And finally, when you quit unhealthy sugar, this is what happens

• Better sleep

• Glowing skin

• Weight loss

• More energy

• No sugar crash

Just ask this fashion blogger who did a sugar detox for 2 months!

Remember, sugar is good for the body but not in high doses or refined kinds. So if you’re in need of a sugar fix, stick to all-natural sweets!