Sugar is everywhere! It's not just in the obvious treats like candies and desserts, but also lurking in many everyday foods we might not suspect. Here's a brief look at where hidden sugars might be sneaking into your diet and how to spot them.
The Usual Suspects
- Processed Foods: Many processed foods, even savory ones, contain added sugars. This includes things like ketchup, salad dressings, and canned soups.
- Beverages: Sodas, flavored waters, sports drinks, and even fruit juices can be loaded with sugars. Always check the labels!
- Breakfast Foods: Cereals, granola bars, and flavored yogurts are often high in added sugars, even if they seem healthy at first glance.
Sneaky Names for Sugar
Food manufacturers often use various names for sugar to disguise just how much is in their products. Look out for ingredients like:
- High fructose corn syrup
- Sucrose
- Dextrose
- Maltose
- Cane juice
- Agave nectar
- Maple syrup
- Honey
Tips for Cutting Down
- Read Labels: Always check the nutrition label and ingredients list for hidden sugars.
- Choose Whole Foods: Fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains are great choices that typically have no added sugars.
- DIY: Make your own sauces, dressings, and snacks so you can control the amount of sugar added.
- Watch Your Drinks: Opt for water, unsweetened tea, or black coffee instead of sugary drinks.