Sugar: How Much Is Too Much?

Sugar makes food taste good, and most of us love it. But many people eat much more sugar than they need. So how much is too much?

What the WHO Says

The World Health Organization (WHO) says that adults should eat less than 50 grams of "free sugar" a day. That is about 12 teaspoons. Less than 25 grams, or about 6 teaspoons, is even better. Free sugar is the sugar that we add to food and drinks, and also the sugar in honey and fruit juice. The sugar in fresh fruit is not free sugar.

Hidden Sugar

Sugar is not only in sweets and cakes. There is sugar in ketchup, bread, yogurt, sauces and breakfast cereals. One can of cola has about 35 grams of sugar. That is almost 9 teaspoons!

Why Too Much Sugar Is Bad

Too much sugar is bad for your teeth. It can also make you gain weight. Over many years, this can lead to health problems like type 2 diabetes.

Easy Ways to Eat Less Sugar

Drink water instead of sweet drinks. Read the labels on food packages. Eat fresh fruit for dessert. And put less sugar in your tea or coffee. After a few weeks, you may not miss it.

You do not need to stop eating sugar. Just eat a little less, and your body will thank you!