Sugar has a tricky way of camouflaging itself in our everyday lives when it comes to our food choices. Even when we attempt to eat healthy or to watch our sugar intake, it has a tricky way of popping up in more forms than one. It is good to remember that sugar is not always classified as “sugar” on the back of packages. You should educate yourself on the many forms that it takes. The “OSE” is one way you can easily spot a sugar. A few would be sucrose, fructose, dextrose, etc. We must be careful, because sugar is an addictive stimulant, and these hidden sugars in an individual’s diet can cause premature aging, chronic health issues, and weight gain. A low sugar diet is best to help keep your health under control.

If we are not careful sugar will destroy our bodies. Here are ten ways sugar can negatively affect an individual.
1. Sugar causes blood glucose to spike and plummet
2. Increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease
3. Interferes with immune function
4. Results in chromium deficiency
5. Accelerates aging
6. Causes tooth decay
7. Cause gum disease, which can lead to heart disease
8. Affects behavior and cognition in children
9. Increases stress
10. Takes the place of important nutrients

These sugars can take a toll on our bodies without us even noticing, and once we do it could be too late. We want to be proactive when it comes to making decisions pertaining to our sugar intake. Read labels, stay away from soft drinks, energy drinks, processed foods and desserts that have a tendency to make you crave it. Craving sugary items is just the addictive mechanism tricking our brains into thinking that we need it. Even the smallest changes that you can make are beneficial to your overall health.

Hidden Sugar Alternatives

1. Use Natural Sweeteners (Honey, Agave Nectar, Etc.)
2. Consume More Healthy Fats
3. Watch Your Sugar Intake at Breakfast (Orange juice is a huge trickster)
4. Don’t Drink Your Calories (Orange juices, coffees, teas, etc.)
5. Rethink Snacks
6. Make Your Sauces, Juices, and Smoothies

Top 10 “Healthy” Foods with Hidden Sugars

1. Hot Cereals (Oatmeal)
2. Packaged Breads
3. Granola Bars
4. Low Calorie Drinks (Coffees, Energy Drinks, Blended Juices, and Teas)
5. Protein Bars
6. Meal Replacements
7. Bottled Sauces (Dressings, Condiments, Etc.)
8. Dried Fruit and Other Fruit Snacks
9. Restaurant Foods
10. Frozen Yogurt (Other Dairy Products Included)

Written by: Hillary D. Griffin