The average American consumes far more sugar than the recommended daily intake, often without even realizing it.
While it’s easy to identify the sweet taste of sugar in desserts and sugary drinks, hidden sugars lurk in a variety
of everyday foods, leading to excessive sugar consumption and its associated health risks.

The Sneaky Culprits

Sugar hides under different names, making it challenging to spot. Some common hidden sugar aliases include:

• • High-fructose corn syrup

• • Agave nectar

• • Barley malt

• • Dextrose

• • Fructose

• • Glucose

• • Lactose

• • Maltose

• • Sucrose

Reading food labels carefully is crucial to avoid unknowingly consuming excessive sugar. Manufacturers often add
hidden sugars to processed foods like cereals, granola bars, yogurts, sauces, and even seemingly healthy options
like fruit juices or energy bars.

The Impact on Health

Excessive sugar intake has various detrimental health effects. The excessive consumption of hidden sugars can lead
to:

• • Weight gain and obesity

• • Increased risk of type 2 diabetes

• • Higher triglyceride levels

• • Poor dental health

• • Increased inflammation

• • Impaired immune function

• • Higher risk of heart disease

• • Energy crashes

Take Control of Your Sugar Intake

To navigate the sugar maze successfully, here are a few tips:

• • Read food labels: Check the ingredient list and keep an eye out for hidden sugars.

• • Be aware of “healthy” claims: Many seemingly healthy foods are loaded with hidden sugars. Don’t be deceived
    by advertising gimmicks.

• • Cook at home: Preparing your meals allows you to have full control over the ingredients you use.

• • Choose whole foods: Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, rather than processed foods.

• • Reduce sugary drinks: Swap high-sugar beverages for water, herbal tea, or homemade smoothies.

By taking these steps, you’ll become more informed about hidden sugars, making it easier to make healthier choices
towards a balanced diet with reduced sugar intake. Remember, small changes lead to significant improvements in your
wellbeing.