Many foods and drinks are full of sugar, particularly those containing "free sugars" that are added during processing or are naturally present in syrups and honey. These are the types of sugars we should be mindful of consuming in moderation.
Examples of Foods and Drinks High in Sugar:
- Sweets: This is a broad category that includes candies, lollipops, and other sugary treats.
- Cakes: Most cakes contain a significant amount of sugar for sweetness and texture.
- Biscuits: Similar to cakes, biscuits often have added sugar for flavor and to contribute to their characteristic crispness.
- Chocolate: While some dark chocolate has lower sugar content, milk chocolate and many chocolate bars are high in sugar.
- Some Fizzy Drinks and Juice Drinks: Many sodas and fruit juices contain high levels of added sugars. A single can of cola can contain as much sugar as 9 sugar cubes.
Why is it Important to Limit Sugar Intake?
Consuming too much sugar can lead to various health problems, including:
- Weight gain and obesity
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Tooth decay
Identifying Added Sugars:
When reading food labels, look for the following terms which indicate added sugars:
- Sucrose
- Glucose
- Fructose
- Corn syrup
- High-fructose corn syrup
- Maltose
- Dextrose
- Invert sugar
- Molasses
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Agave nectar
Limiting your intake of foods and drinks high in added sugars is a crucial step towards a healthier lifestyle.
