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.