Sugar is everywhere! It’s in our morning cup of coffee and our afternoon snacks. It’s even hidden in savory foods that we wouldn’t think twice about consuming.
Whether you’re a health-conscious individual or just trying to cut down on your sugar intake, it’s important to know where sugar can sneakily hide in your diet. Here are 30 surprising sources of hidden sugar:.
1. Granola Bars
Granola bars might sound like a healthy option, but many are loaded with sugar. Just one bar can contain up to 20 grams of sugar.
2. Salad Dressings
Salad dressings may seem like a harmless addition to your salad, but they can sometimes contain high levels of sugar. Be sure to read the label before adding any to your plate.
3. Fruit Juice
Fruit juice is often marketed as a healthy drink option, but it can contain just as much sugar as soda does. Opt for whole fruits instead.
4. Flavored Yogurt
Yogurt can be a nutritious snack, but flavored varieties can contain high levels of added sugar. Stick to plain yogurt and add fresh fruit for extra flavor.
5. Canned Fruit
Canned fruit might seem like a convenient way to get your daily dose of fruit, but many varieties are packed in syrup which can be loaded with sugar. Opt for canned fruit packed in water or its own juice.
6. Ketchup
One tablespoon of ketchup can contain as much as 1 teaspoon of sugar. Consider making your own sugar-free ketchup at home.
7. Pasta Sauce
Pasta sauce can often contain added sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. Homemade or no sugar added varieties are a better option.
8. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic barbecue dish, but they can contain up to 15 grams of sugar per serving. Opt for homemade versions with reduced sugar content.
9. Sports Drinks
Sports drinks may replenish your electrolytes after a workout, but they can also contain high levels of sugar. Opt for coconut water or plain water instead.
10. Cereal
Cereal may be a staple breakfast food, but many brands are loaded with added sugar. Opt for low-sugar or no-sugar-added varieties.
11. Energy Bars
Energy bars may seem like a healthy snack option, but many contain high levels of added sugars. Opt for bars with whole foods and no added sugars.
12. Smoothies
Smoothies are often marketed as a healthy drink option, but many can contain up to 50 grams of sugar per serving. Opt for smoothies with whole fruits and vegetables with no added sugars.
13. Protein Bars
Protein bars may be a convenient snack, but many contain just as much sugar as a candy bar. Opt for bars with whole foods and no added sugars.
14. Dried Fruit
Dried fruit may seem like a healthy snack, but they can contain added sugar to enhance their sweetness. Opt for fresh fruit instead.
15. Bread
Bread can contain added sugar to help it rise and to enhance its flavor. Opt for breads with minimal or no added sugars.
16. Sweetened Cereal Milk
The leftover milk from sweetened cereal can contain more sugar than the cereal itself. Opt for unsweetened or no sugar added cereal.
17. Instant Oatmeal
Instant oatmeal can contain high levels of added sugar for flavor. Opt for plain oatmeal and add fresh fruit for sweetness.
18. Frozen Dinners
Frozen dinners may seem like a convenient option, but many contain hidden sugars to enhance their flavor. Opt for homemade meals for better sugar control.
19. Chocolate Milk
Chocolate milk may be a childhood favorite, but it can contain up to 22 grams of sugar per serving. Opt for unsweetened almond or soy milk instead.
20. BBQ Sauce
BBQ sauce can contain high levels of sugar to balance out the smoky flavors. Opt for homemade versions with reduced sugar content.
21. Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce can contain sugar for flavor and to balance out the salty flavors. Opt for homemade versions with reduced sugar content.
22. Fast Food
Fast food meals are often loaded with sugar and other hidden ingredients. Opt for homemade meals for better control over your sugar intake.
23. Canned Soup
Canned soup can contain added sugars for flavor and to balance out the salty flavors. Opt for homemade soup for a healthier option.
24. Coffee Creamer
Coffee creamer can contain high levels of added sugar and other unhealthy ingredients. Opt for unsweetened almond or soy milk instead.
25. Chips
Chips can contain added sugar and other unhealthy ingredients. Opt for homemade kale chips or veggie sticks instead.
26. Cocktail Mixers
Cocktail mixers can contain high levels of added sugar for flavor. Opt for homemade versions with reduced sugar content.
27. White Rice
White rice can be digested quickly and converted into sugar in the body. Opt for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
28. Sweet Tea
Sweet tea can contain up to 22 grams of sugar per serving. Opt for unsweetened tea or add a small amount of honey instead.
29. Baked Goods
Baked goods such as cookies and cakes can contain high levels of sugar and other unhealthy ingredients. Opt for homemade versions with reduced sugar content.
30. Fruit-On-Bottom Yogurt
Fruit-on-bottom yogurt can contain high levels of added sugar to enhance the sweetness. Opt for plain yogurt and add fresh fruit for flavor.