Joe says:

We've been so focused on the fat in our diet and its impact on cholesterol that sugar has gotten a free ride. No more. In the past few years, sugar - particularly high fructose corn syrup - has been linked to overweight, obesity and elevated triglycerides. New studies now show that too much added sugars in the diet can lowel levels of protective HDL cholesterol as well. So, according to health experts, people need to pay closer attention to their intake of added sugars.

What are "added sugars?" They include table sugar, brown sugar, high fructose corn syrup, honey, molasses, brown rice syrup, agave syrup and other caloric sweeteners in prepared and processed foods such as soft drinks and canned fruit. They do not include the sugars in fruit, 100% juice and other whole foods.

The American Heart Association says most women should consume no more than 100 calories, or 6.5 teaspoons, a day from added sugars. Most men should consume no more than 150 calories, or 9.5 teaspoons, a day from added sugars.

If you are looking for ways to cut back, then reduce or skip sugar-sweetened beverages such as soft drinks, lemonade and sweetened tea. They are the number one source of added sugars in our diet.

1 | Jul. 9, 2010 at 9:38am