Many foods and drinks contain hidden sugars, making it hard to limit intake. Too much sugar can harm your teeth, weight, and overall health, so understanding labels is key.
Sugar is found in many foods and drinks, often under more than 50 different names on labels. While natural sugars in fruits and milk are healthy, "free sugars" are added by manufacturers, cooks, or consumers.
These added sugars are common in fizzy drinks, biscuits, cakes, and even fruit juices and many breakfast cereals. Even honey, often seen as healthier, is processed by the body much like other sugars and should be limited.
Health guidelines suggest that added sugars should make up no more than 5-10% of your daily calories. However, many people, especially children, consume about twice this recommended amount each day.
Too much sugar can lead to tooth decay and a higher risk of obesity. It is also linked to heart problems, high blood pressure, and may even affect your brain and gut health over time.
Reducing sugar intake can be done gradually. Try using less sugar in your tea or coffee, and swap sugary drinks for water with fruit. Your taste buds can adjust to less sweetness over time.
