Are you aware of the effects of added sugar?

Added sugars are sugars that are not naturally occurring in food and are added during the processing and manufacturing of a food or beverage. Added sugars are often called ‘empty calories’ because they may give you a burst of energy but the energy isn’t sustainable and they don’t contain any of the nutrients we need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. But added sugars are more than empty calories and can lead to serious health concerns if consumed too often. A diet high in added sugars can lead to obesity, tooth decay, diabetes, and heart disease. One of the biggest dangers of consuming food and beverages with added sugar is how much is in each item. A can of soda can contain as much ten teaspoons of added sugar.

Where to find added sugar:

• Soda

• Juice

• Condiments like ketchup and bbq sauce

• Baked goods

• Candy

• Sweetened and flavored yogurts

• Cured meats

• Cereal

The best way to kick a sugar habit? Don’t start one!

Have conversations with your children about sugar. Growing up with an understanding of healthy eating habits will help set up children for a lifetime of healthy choices. The most recent Dietary Guidelines recommend children under the age of 2 consume no added sugars from food or beverages.
Learn more: Play Every Day, Sugar Can Add Up Quickly.

Take the pledge

Take the pledge to rethink sugary drinks. Make the commitment to choosing water over sugary drinks today. Print out a copy of the pledge certificate for everyone in your family.

Try making your water more fun with fresh fruit, choosing sparkling water, or adding frozen fruit instead of ice cubes.