Added sugar

Added sugar refers to sugars and syrups that are added to foods during processing or preparation. Unlike naturally occurring sugars found in fruits and milk, added sugars are introduced to enhance flavor, texture, or preservation.

Sources of Added Sugar

Added sugars are commonly found in a variety of processed foods and beverages. Some typical sources include:

• Soft drinks
• Candy
• Baked goods such as cakes and cookies
• Ice cream
• Breakfast cereals

Types of Added Sugar

There are several types of added sugars, including:

• Sucrose
• High-fructose corn syrup
• Glucose
• Fructose
• Maltose
• Lactose

Health Implications

Excessive consumption of added sugars has been linked to various health issues, including:

• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes
• Heart disease
• Dental caries

Dietary Recommendations

Health organizations, such as the World Health Organization and the American Heart Association, recommend limiting the intake of added sugars. Guidelines suggest that added sugars should constitute no more than 10% of total daily caloric intake.

Labeling and Regulation

In many countries, food labeling regulations require manufacturers to list added sugars on nutrition labels. This helps consumers make informed choices about their sugar intake.

Strategies to Reduce Added Sugar Intake

To reduce added sugar consumption, individuals can:

• Choose unsweetened or low-sugar versions of foods and beverages.
• Read nutrition labels to identify added sugars.
• Use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in moderation.
• Increase the intake of whole foods such as fruits and vegetables.

Related pages

• Sugar substitute
• Nutrition
• Dietary guidelines
• Food processing

Gallery

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  Measuring ingredients, including added sugar.