You don’t have to eat dessert every day to consume too much sugar.
Hidden in sauces, breads, cereals, and even “healthy” snacks, added sugar sneaks into your diet in ways you might not expect.
And while a little sugar is fine, too much — especially added sugars — can disrupt your energy, mood, skin, and long-term health.
The good news?
Your body sends clear signals when sugar levels are out of balance.
Let’s explore the 8 most common signs you’re eating too much sugar — and what you can do to reset — without guilt or extreme diets.
Why Too Much Sugar Is a Problem
The American Heart Association recommends:
- No more than 25g (6 tsp) of added sugar per day for women
- 36g (9 tsp) for men
Yet the average American consumes over 70g per day — more than 3 times the recommended amount.
Excess sugar is linked to:
- Weight gain
- Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
- Fatty liver disease
- Inflammation
- Poor heart health
But before these serious conditions develop, your body often gives early warning signs.
Here are 8 to watch for:
