Here's how you can tally up the sugar in your favourite food and drinks
A recent study by Wits University found that South Africans consume more than the required amount of sugar, which is estimated at 12 to 24 teaspoons daily, though the World Health Organization suggests a daily limit of six teaspoons.
Laager Rooibos partner dietitian Mbali Mapholi says hidden sugars are often 'sneaky' and can add up quickly throughout the day. She adds that certain snacks and drinks 'aren't noticeably sweet' but still contain worrying amounts of sugar, which can significantly impact one's health over time.
According to Mapholi, natural sugars come in the form of lactose, fructose and sucrose, which originate in fruit, vegetables, dairy and grain foods. In contrast, hidden sugars are added to foods or drinks during processing. These sugars come in many different forms from cane sugar, agave nectar, honey, maple syrup, high fructose corn syrup, molasses, honey and fruit juice concentrates.
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