Sugar is often called the silent killer because it can contribute to a host of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer.

Unfortunately, avoiding sugar can be quite challenging because it is added to many foods that are otherwise considered healthy. Here are ten foods loaded with hidden sugar that you should avoid as much as possible.

1. Granola Bars

Granola bars are often marketed as a healthy snack, but many brands contain a shocking amount of sugar. In fact, some granola bars can contain up to 12 grams of sugar in just one bar.

To avoid this hidden sugar, look for granola bars that are low in sugar or make your own at home using ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds.

2. Yogurt

Yogurt is often touted as a healthy food, but not all yogurt is created equal. Flavored yogurt, for example, can be loaded with sugar. A single serving of strawberry-flavored yogurt can contain up to 18 grams of sugar.

To avoid these hidden sugars, opt for plain yogurt and add your own fresh fruit or honey for sweetness.

3. Sports Drinks

Sports drinks are marketed to athletes and active people as a way to replenish electrolytes and improve hydration. However, many sports drinks are loaded with sugar. In fact, a 20-ounce bottle of sports drink can contain up to 34 grams of sugar.

To avoid this hidden sugar, stick with water or low-calorie electrolyte drinks instead.

4. BBQ Sauce

BBQ sauce is a popular condiment that can add flavor to meats and vegetables. However, many BBQ sauces are loaded with sugar. A single serving of BBQ sauce can contain up to 15 grams of sugar.

To avoid this hidden sugar, look for BBQ sauces that are sugar-free or make your own at home using ingredients like tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.

5. Cereal

Cereal is a classic breakfast food that many people love to start their day with. However, many brands of cereal are loaded with sugar. In fact, some brands of cereal can contain up to 13 grams of sugar per serving.

To avoid this hidden sugar, look for cereal that is low in sugar or make your own at home using ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruit.

6. Ketchup

Ketchup is a condiment that is used on burgers, fries, and other fast food items. Unfortunately, ketchup is often loaded with sugar. A single tablespoon of ketchup can contain up to 4 grams of sugar.

To avoid this hidden sugar, look for ketchup that is sugar-free or make your own at home using ingredients like tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.

7. Energy Bars

Energy bars are often marketed as a healthy snack option for people on the go. However, many brands of energy bars are loaded with sugar. In fact, some energy bars can contain up to 20 grams of sugar per bar.

To avoid this hidden sugar, look for energy bars that are low in sugar or make your own at home using ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.

8. Smoothies

Smoothies are often considered a healthy snack option because they are made with fresh fruits and vegetables. However, many smoothie shops add sugar to their drinks to make them more palatable.

A single serving of some smoothies can contain up to 80 grams of sugar. To avoid this hidden sugar, look for smoothies that are made with fresh fruit and vegetables only or make your own at home.

9. Canned Soup

Canned soup is a quick and easy meal option that many people turn to for lunch or dinner. However, many brands of canned soup are loaded with sugar. A single serving of some canned soups can contain up to 10 grams of sugar.

To avoid this hidden sugar, look for canned soup that is low in sugar or make your own at home using fresh ingredients.

10. Salad Dressing

Salad dressing is often considered a healthy option for people who are watching their weight or trying to stay healthy. However, many brands of salad dressing are loaded with sugar.

A single serving of some salad dressings can contain up to 7 grams of sugar. To avoid this hidden sugar, look for salad dressing that is sugar-free or make your own at home using ingredients like olive oil, vinegar, and spices.