Sugar is one of the most addictive substances on earth. It is also one of the most dangerous. Consuming large amounts of sugar can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

Unfortunately, sugar is added to many foods that we consume every day, even those that you may not be aware of. Here are the shocking truths about hidden sugars in your food.

1. Yogurt

Yogurt is a favorite among health-conscious people, but it is often loaded with sugar. Commercially available yogurt contains around 47 grams of sugar per cup. This sugar is usually in the form of added flavorings and fruit purees.

To ensure you are not consuming hidden sugars, opt for plain yogurt, and add your fruits to sweeten the yogurt to your liking.

2. Canned Fruits

Canned fruits are available all year round, and they are perceived as healthy. However, canned fruits contain high amounts of added sugar to improve their taste.

Some canned fruits contain syrup, which is high in fructose corn syrup, a type of sugar that is difficult to metabolize. Opt for fresh fruits instead or look for canned fruits packed in water or natural fruit juice.

3. Granola Bars

Granola bars are marketed as a healthy snack, but they often contain high amounts of hidden sugars. Many granola bars combine honey, sugar, and chocolate, which increases their sugar content.

Always read labels and choose granola bars with minimal ingredients. You can also make your granola bars at home using healthy ingredients like dates, nuts, and oats.

4. Tomato Sauce

Tomato sauce is a common ingredient in many dishes, but it is often high in sugar content. Some tomato sauce brands contain up to 12 grams of sugar per half a cup. This sugar is usually added to mask the sourness of the tomatoes.

Choosing a natural tomato sauce or tomato paste without added sugar is an excellent alternative, or you can make your own tomato sauce at home.

5. Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are popular among people who need a quick boost of energy, but they are often loaded with sugar. Most energy drinks contain added sugars and caffeine, which can increase your risk for obesity and heart disease.

Substitute energy drinks with healthier beverages like water, tea, or fresh juices.

6. Salad Dressings

Salad dressings are often high in sugar content despite their low-calorie nature. Some salad dressings contain up to 10 grams of sugar per serving.

When shopping for salad dressings, opt for oil and vinegar-based dressings or make your own using healthy ingredients like olive oil and lemon juice.

7. Breakfast Cereals

Breakfast cereals are a popular breakfast option, but they are often sugary. Some breakfast cereals contain as much sugar as a candy bar, and eating them can increase your risk of obesity and diabetes.

Purchase low sugar cereals or make your at home using healthy ingredients like oats, nuts, and fruits.

8. Smoothies

Smoothies are common among health enthusiasts, but they are also high in sugar content. Most smoothie joints use fruit juice, artificial sweeteners, or added sugars to make their beverages taste better.

Limit your smoothie intake or opt for a smoothie made with fresh fruits and vegetables with no added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

9. Ketchup

Ketchup is a staple in households worldwide, but it is often high in sugar content.

A tablespoon of ketchup contains at least one teaspoon of sugar! You can find ketchup brands with lower sugar, but you can also make your ketchup at home using tomatoes, vinegar, and a small amount of honey or maple syrup.

10. Baby Food

Baby foods are marketed as healthy, but they are often loaded with added sugars. Many baby foods contain fruit juice concentrates and purees, which are high in sugar content.

Always check the labels when purchasing baby food and opt for varieties containing no added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

It is essential to be conscious about the foods we consume and especially to pay attention to the often hidden sugars in our favorite foods.

Always read the labels of your food purchases and choose foods with lower sugar content and cleaner ingredients.