Sugar myths debunked: what truly counts in your diet
A dietitian explains the difference between natural sugars found in whole foods and added sugars, emphasizing that whole foods (like fruit) bring fiber and nutrients that slow sugar absorption, while added sugars add calories with little nutrition and should be limited. The nutrition labels’ “added sugars” line helps identify hidden sugars, and you don’t need to fear all sugar or avoid fruits. A key takeaway is to focus on whole, nutrient-rich foods and practice mindful portion sizes, while recognizing that sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, and fruit juice concentrates count toward added sugars when used in processing.
