Which of the following is NOT a consequence of consuming too many carbohydrates?

• A. Dental caries
• B. Weight gain
• C. Dehydration
• D. Elevated triglycerides

Answer: (C)

Excess carbohydrate intake can produce several downstream effects related to energy balance and metabolism. When fermentable sugars linger in the mouth, oral bacteria metabolize them and release acids that can demineralize tooth enamel, increasing the risk of dental caries. If carbohydrate calories exceed what the body needs for energy, the surplus is stored as fat, contributing to weight gain. Additionally, high intake of simple sugars, particularly fructose, can drive the liver to synthesize fatty acids, elevating triglyceride levels in the bloodstream. Dehydration is not a direct consequence of eating too many carbohydrates; carbohydrates don’t inherently cause a fluid deficit. In fact, glycogen storage can bind water, and dehydration is more commonly linked to fluid losses or conditions like vomiting, diarrhea, or osmotic diuresis in diabetes.