In this video, Northside Hospital Cancer Institute oncology dietitian Savannah Duffy delves into different types of sugar.
According to the American Heart Association, American adults consume an average of 17 teaspoons of added sugar every day — more than 2-3 times the recommended amount for
men and women, respectively. This adds up to around 60 pounds of added sugar consumed annually — equivalent to six, 10-pound bowling balls!
Believe it or not, there are over 50 types of sugar — from the familiar white
table sugar to honey, molasses and more. Ms. Duffy breaks down the difference in sugars
and which ones add calories or affect blood glucose levels. She also offers lower-calorie or calorie-free alternatives like
artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols and novel sweeteners.
Whether you aim to lose weight or maintain blood glucose levels, understanding the right sweetener for you is crucial. Moderation is key, and understanding the variety of sugars empowers you to make informed choices in your diet.
For more health tips from Northside’s nutrition services.