Shocking Sugar

Recent statistics have shown that in less than fifty years (between 1961 and 2009) the levels of sugar and sweeteners consumed have risen by over 20%. Over consumption of sugar can lead to serious health conditions, including type two diabetes, heart disease, strokes as well as tooth decay.

On average someone in the UK consumes approximately 700g of sugar a week, equivalent to 140 teaspoons (according to NHS.co.uk/change4life). You would be amazed at some of the sugar that is found in some food products. Here are some of the most shocking sugar levels in everyday food products:

·         Small Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino with Whipped Cream and Skimmed Milk

Contains 11 teaspoons of sugar and 273 calories.

·         Coca Cola (330ml can)

Contains 9 teaspoons of sugar and 139 calories

·         Muller Crunch Corner Strawberry Shortcake Yoghurt

Contains 6 teaspoons of sugar and 212 calories

·         Yeo Valley Family Farm 0% Fat Vanilla Yoghurt

Contains 5 teaspoons of sugar and 120 calories

·         Kellogg’s Frosties with Semi-Skimmed Milk

Contains 4 teaspoons of sugar and 172 calories

·         Glaceau Vitamin Water (500ml bottle)

Contains 4 teaspoons of sugar and 65 calories

·         Heinz Classic Tomato Soup (300g can)

Contains 4 teaspoons of sugar and 117 calories

·         Ragu Tomato and Basil Pasta Sauce (200g jar)

Contains 3 teaspoons of sugar and 80 calories

·         Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Crunchy Oat Granola Cinnamon Bar

Contains 2 teaspoons of sugar and 186 calories

·         Heinz Tomato Ketchup (15ml)

Contains 1 teaspoon of sugar and 18 calories

 

There are a number of ways to cut down on your sugar intake:

 

Breakfast

Check the sugar content on cereal boxes as the levels tend to vary quite drastically, and it is not always what you expect. If you add fruit to your cereal opt for fresh fruit rather than dried, as dried fruit contains a lot more sugar. If you prefer toast in the morning, then just have a thin layer of jam or marmalade.

 

Healthy Snacks

Cakes, pastries, sweets, biscuits and chocolate can all be high in sugar. Choose light or low sugar versions and buy smaller packs. Or swap sweet snacks for unsalted and unroasted nuts or unsalted rice cakes. Although fruit contains a lot of sugar, it is a healthier choice than most sugary snacks as it also contains vitamins, minerals and fibre.

 

Drinks

Fizzy drinks, milkshakes, sweetened cordials and fruit juices contain vast amounts of sugar. Swap these for water and sugar free drinks.

Interested in a career within the nutrition industry? Premier Training offers a range of nutrition courses and qualifications; some specifically designed to help tackle obesity and diabetes such as Level 4 Diploma in Specialist Exercise - Obesity and Diabetes.