Added sugar refers to sugars that are included in food products during processing or preparation. This includes sugars added to beverages, snacks, desserts, and even some savory dishes. Unlike natural sugars found in fruits and vegetables, added sugars provide extra sweetness but no nutritional benefits, and they can be found on ingredient labels as various types of sweeteners, such as high-fructose corn syrup, cane sugar, or honey.
Added sugar matters for health because excessive consumption can lead to various health risks. It is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. When people consume foods high in added sugars, they may experience quick spikes in blood sugar levels, followed by rapid drops, which can lead to increased hunger and cravings for more sugar. This cycle can make it difficult to maintain a balanced diet and healthy weight.
In the body, added sugars are quickly broken down into glucose, which is used for energy. However, when consumed in large amounts, the body can struggle to manage the excess sugar, leading to insulin resistance and other metabolic issues. Unlike the natural sugars from whole foods, the rapid absorption of added sugars can cause the body to work harder, which can contribute to long-term health problems.
It is important to be aware of added sugars in foods and beverages since many products contain more sugar than people realize. Reading labels can help individuals make informed choices about their sugar intake and promote better overall health.