How Much Hidden Sugar Are You Consuming?
We all know to avoid foods that contain high amounts of sugar, no matter how yummy they are. Foods such as lollies, chocolate and soft drinks all commonly have high amounts of sugars. What you may not realise, however, is that you may still be consuming foods that have hidden sugars. More so than added sugars, hidden sugars are actually what’s responsible for high obesity levels and tooth diseases, because we are so unaware of what’s hidden in foods that we think are healthy. If you think you’re not one of the individuals who have fallen for this mistake, think again. It’s more common than you think.
Cereals
It’s commonly known that cereals aimed towards kids have high amounts of sugar. Think of brands like Froot Loops and Coco Pops. Their sugary contents are what makes them so popular amongst kids, and an easy way to keep them happy. However, it’s not just those types of cereals that have high sugar contents. Granola, flavoured oatmeal, certain muesli brands and other adult-geared cereals have a surprisingly high amount of hidden sugars. Some of them even contain more than half of our daily sugar limit! Be sure to check the labels to find out exactly how much sugar you’re consuming per serving.
Packaged Breads
When we think of breads, we think of carbs. However, many of us seem to forget that most breads actually contain nearly most of our daily limit of sugar. This is just in a simple slice! While you may think only multigrain and white bread contain added sugar, you may be fooled. Brown and wholemeal bread contains more added sugar than you may think. Read the labels to decide which bread is best for you and your family.
Yoghurt
Yoghurt may have you thinking it’s a healthier alternative to ice cream, but it could all just be a marketing tactic. Yoghurt actually contains just as much sugar, especially in fruit flavoured types. Greek yoghurt is a good alternative for yoghurt, provided you check the label, as some brands may still contain hidden sugars. If you want to make Greek yoghurt tastier, add some fresh fruit and nuts to it rather than purchasing flavoured brands.
Crackers
Savoury snacks like crackers may seem like a healthy alternative to cookies because of their saltiness. However, crackers are yet another food that has you fooled. Some crackers actually have just as much sugars as cookies due to their high fructose corn syrup, hydrogenated oils and trans fat contents. Crackers may be a popular snack in the household, so it could be difficult to remove them from your diet all together. Try to find crackers that have high fibre contents rather than sugar.
Oat Bars
Like cereal, you’ve probably been tricked into thinking that oat bars are a quick, healthy breakfast. What you probably don’t realise is that they are pretty much made entirely of sugar. They are usually marketed as “energy bars”, and where do you think the energy comes from? Certainly not from the lack of protein! If you do your research, there are healthier alternatives to oat bars. Make sure to check that whole grains are listed as the first ingredient, and that it has no more than 5 grams of sugar.
Titirangi Dental
If you would like to be sure you’re not eating any hidden sugars, talk to the experts at Titirangi Dental in West Auckland. Our team of dentists offer comprehensive dental care to look at your teeth and recommend a plan to improve your oral condition. To make an appointment, contact our office on 09 817 6057, or make a booking online.
