How Sugar Affects Teens
- Mayeev Bishy
- Aug 22
- 4 min read
A lot of teenagers struggle to cut back on sugar because it's incorporated into most foods consumed today, and let’s face it: it tastes good. From sodas to snacks, sugary foods have become a regular part of daily life. However, many young adults are unaware of the long-term effects of excessive sugar consumption on their well-being. It might give a quick energy boost at first, but that rush doesn’t last and can be followed by many issues in the long run. Therefore, learning about the effects of sugar on the body and how different types of sugar work can help young adults make informed choices that benefit their health and keep them focused.
Sugar shows up in way more places than people think, not just in candy, but also in cereal, ketchup, salad dressings, and even bread. Nearly three-quarters of packaged foods have added sugar (Sugar Science). As a result, it's easy to overconsume without noticing it. On a basic level, sugar is a carbohydrate made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (Britannica). When consumed, the body breaks it down into glucose, which increases blood sugar levels. That signals the pancreas to release insulin, a hormone that helps move the sugar from the blood into cells to use or store (Better Health Channel). There are two main categories of sugar: simple and complex. Simple sugars digest quickly and are used by the body right away, while complex carbohydrates take longer to break down (Healthline).
There are six main types of simple sugars. Glucose is the most common; it’s the type of sugar your body uses most for energy (IFIC). Fructose, found naturally in fruits and honey, tastes the sweetest because of its structure. Galactose usually shows up when it’s paired with glucose to form lactose, the sugar in milk and dairy products. Then there’s sucrose, better known as table sugar, which is made of glucose and fructose. Maltose (from grains) and lactose are examples of disaccharides, which are sugars made up of two molecules. While all of these sugars provide energy, eating too much, especially from processed foods, can lead to health problems like weight gain, fatigue, or increased risk of disease (Better Health Channel).
Sugar affects more than just teeth or weight; it impacts the whole body. In the mouth, sugar feeds the bacteria that cause cavities and tooth decay (WebMD). Maintaining good dental hygiene isn’t just about a nice smile; it also influences how you eat, talk, and feel about yourself (Teen Medic Talks). On the skin, sugar can worsen acne by increasing oil and causing inflammation (GoodRx Health). Over time, sugar can damage the arteries, making them stiff and inflamed. This puts extra strain on the heart and increases the likelihood of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, or even a stroke (WebMD). Eating excessive amounts of sugary foods can also lead the body to store more fat, increasing the risk of obesity. One of the more serious long-term effects is type 2 diabetes, where your body stops using insulin properly; therefore, sugar builds up in your blood and can damage organs (Mayo Clinic).
Cutting back on sugar doesn’t mean you have to completely change your diet. Making simple, steady adjustments can add up over time. Drinking plenty of water helps the kidneys clear out extra sugar and keeps the body working well (MD Anderson Cancer Center). After meals, gentle activities like walking, stretching, or yoga can help the body burn sugar for energy and avoid sudden blood sugar spikes (Nourish). Making sure you get enough rest is important since feeling tired or stressed often leads to cravings for sugary foods. Having regular meals that include protein and fiber, such as eggs, beans, fruits, or whole grains, supports consistent energy levels and can help curb cravings for sugary snacks and drinks (Nourish). These everyday habits can support better focus, improve how you feel, and protect your health in the long run.
Sugar provides the energy the body needs for everyday activities, but cutting it out completely can lead to problems like hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, which causes symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and confusion (Mayo Clinic). Finding a middle ground is essential. Enjoying sweets now and then, as part of a balanced diet with healthy meals, is a good way to have treats without harming your health.
Overall, sugar has a strong impact on teen health. While it provides the energy needed, excessive intake contributes to dental issues, acne, heart problems, obesity, and diabetes. By staying hydrated, exercising, getting enough sleep, and eating balanced meals, young adults can reduce sugar’s harmful effects and improve overall well-being.
Works Cited:
“Hidden in Plain Sight.” SugarScience. UCSF.edu, 17 Nov. 2013
Margaret A. Clarke, R Paul Singh. “Sugar- Cane Sugar.” Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 July.
2025
Better Health Channel. “Sugar.” Better Health Channel, 9 Dec. 2022
Van De Walle, Gavin. “Simple Sugars (Simple Carbs): Definition, Lists, and Risks.” Healthline, 7 Jan. 2019
Silvia Dumitrescu. International Food Information Council. “What Is Fructose? 20 Nov. 2020
Better Health Channel. “Sugar.” Better Health Channel, 9 Dec. 2022
Hughes, Locke. “How Does Too Much Sugar Affect Your Body?” WebMD, 09 Jan. 2024
Stephens, Michayla. “Oral Care Tips.” Teen Medic Talks, 8 June 2025
Fisher, Jennifer. “Does Sugar Cause Acne? Understanding Sugar and Skin Health.” GoodRx, July 2024
Hughes, Locke. “How Does Too Much Sugar Affect Your Body?” WebMD, 09 Jan. 2024
Mayo Clinic. “Hypoglycemia.” Mayo Clinic, 18 Nov. 2023
Jones, Valerie. “6 Tips to Lower Your Blood Sugar.” MD Anderson Cancer Center, 7 Nov. 2023
Petrie, Ashley. “What to Do If You Ate Too Much Sugar and Feel Sick.” Usenourish.com, 12 June. 2024
Jones, Valerie. “6 Tips to Lower Your Blood Sugar.” MD Anderson Cancer Center, 7 Nov. 2023
Comments