By Pauline Weissman, M.S., C.N.S
Board Certified Nutrition Specialist
SALUD INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
Sugar is sweet but too much sweetness can wreak havoc in your mental and physical health. And, most of us aren’t even aware of hidden sugars in our daily diets. Of course, we’re all aware that excess sugar consumption can cause tooth decay and add calories that translate into extra weight. But did you also know that excess sugar can contribute to diabetes, a suppressed immune system, and trigger behavioral issues in children?
Government guidelines suggest that on average adults should consume no more than 30 grams of added sugar per day (meaning in a packaged product like cakes, candy, or soda; not the kind that is naturally occurring in berries, other fruits, or vegetables). That’s equivalent to what is contained in a single container of some flavored yogurts!
To cut down on added sugars, make a habit of reading nutrition facts food labels and you’ll learn how many grams of sugar are in that item you are about to eat.
Even better, eliminate processed food altogether: choose a fruit or raw nuts in place of a snack bar and consider hummus and veggies or natural nut butter and apple slices instead of the usual chips and crackers.
These changes will not only improve your overall health, but also cut down your grocery bill!
