Sugar is known for its sweet taste and is found in various foods, drinks, and ingredients. However, not all foods with high sugar content are easy to detect. Some foods that seem healthy or savory actually contain a significant amount of sugar.

Consuming too much sugar can lead to various health issues such as weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease. In this article, we will reveal ten surprising foods that have a high sugar content that you may not realize.

1. Ketchup

Many people consider ketchup a savory condiment, but it contains high amounts of sugar. A single tablespoon of ketchup contains around 4 grams of sugar, which is equivalent to 1 teaspoon.

If you consume four tablespoons of ketchup, you will already be consuming about 1 teaspoon of sugar.

2. Flavored Yogurt

Yogurt is often considered a healthy snack, but some flavored yogurt varieties contain high amounts of added sugar. Even brands that are marketed as healthy may still add sugar to improve the taste.

Check the label to see how much sugar is in your favorite yogurt. You can also opt for plain yogurt and add fruit for natural sweetness.

3. Instant Oatmeal

Oatmeal is often recommended as a healthy breakfast option, but instant oatmeal packets contain a lot of added sugar. One packet of instant oatmeal can have up to 12 grams of sugar, which is almost as much as eating a candy bar for breakfast.

4. Granola Bars

Granola bars are a convenient snack to carry around, but many brands contain a lot of sugar. Some granola bars can have as much as 8 teaspoons of sugar per bar.

Look for granola bars with low sugar content, or opt for making homemade granola bars with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

5. Barbecue Sauce

Barbecue sauce is often used as a marinade or condiment, but it contains a high amount of sugar. A single tablespoon of barbecue sauce can contain up to 8 grams of sugar.

Check the label to see how much sugar is in your favorite barbecue sauce, and consider making your own sauce with natural sweetener alternatives like dates or Stevia.

6. Canned Fruit

Canned fruit is often found in many food pantries, but they can contain high amounts of added sugar. Fruit in syrup or juice is not as healthy as fresh or frozen fruit as they add sugar and preservatives.

When buying canned fruit, look for fruit that is canned in natural juices with no added sugars.

7. Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is often used as a marinade or sauce, but it contains high amounts of sugar. Some brands of teriyaki sauce can contain up to 11 grams of sugar per tablespoon.

Look for brands without added sugar or create your own teriyaki sauce with fresh ingredients and low sugar alternatives like honey or agave syrup.

8. Dried Fruit

Dried fruit may seem healthy, but it can be a hidden source of sugar. Because the water content has been removed, the sugar content is concentrated, making it easy for overconsumption.

Some dried fruits, like cranberries, can have up to 20 grams of sugar per serving. Choose fresh or frozen fruit instead and limit your intake of dried fruit.

9. Cereal

Cereal might be a breakfast staple for many households, but many brands contain high amounts of sugar. Some popular cereal brands can contain up to 2 teaspoons of sugar per serving.

Look for low-sugar brands or opt for homemade cereal with natural sweeteners like banana or dates.

10. Salad Dressing

Salad dressing can often contain high amounts of added sugar. One serving of salad dressing can have as much as 10 grams of sugar.

Make sure to read the label and choose dressings with low sugar content or make your own salad dressing with fresh ingredients and natural alternatives like honey or balsamic vinegar.

Conclusion

Consuming too much sugar can lead to various health risks, but it’s not just the obvious sweet treats that we need to be cautious about. Every day we eat foods with a lot of hidden sugars that we might not even realize.

Be mindful when purchasing and consuming foods, and always read the label before buying. By being aware of what foods have a high sugar content, you can make smart choices for a healthier lifestyle.