Sugar - Hidden calories around every corner
The amount of sugar in our daily diet can vary widely depending on individual dietary choices and habits. However, the American Heart Association recommends that adults limit their intake of added sugars to no more than 6 teaspoons (24 grams) per day for women and 9 teaspoons (36 grams) per day for men.
Added sugars include sugars and syrups that are added to foods during processing or preparation, as well as sugars that are added at the table. Examples of foods and beverages that can be high in added sugars include soda, sports drinks, candy, baked goods, and many processed foods.
It's important to note that not all sugar in our diet is added sugar. Fruits, for example, contain natural sugars, but they also contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are important for overall health. So, it's not necessary to eliminate all sugar from the diet, but rather to be mindful of the sources and amounts of sugar consumed.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the average American consumes about 17 teaspoons (68 grams) of added sugars per day. This is significantly higher than the recommended daily limit of added sugars set by the American Heart Association, which is 6 teaspoons (24 grams) for women and 9 teaspoons (36 grams) for men.