The Harmful Impact of Added Sugards

From spaghetti sauce to granola bars, added sugars can be found in the most unexpected foods. Some common added sugars include raw sugar, brown sugar, honey, high fructose corn syrup, molasses, and sugar molecules ending in “ose” like dextrose, fructose, glucose, lactose, maltose, and sucrose.

Added sugars are different than natural sugars in that they are incorporated into foods and beverages during preparation and processing to add flavor or extend shelf life. Consuming foods that contain natural sugars is okay because these foods typically have high amounts of fiber, essential minerals, and antioxidants. Foods with natural sugars will also digest slower, offering a steady supply of energy to your cells.

Infographic by: American Heart Association