Natural vs added: Why adults must monitor sugar intake

Sugar is a major part of modern adult diets, often hidden in everyday foods and beverages. 

This makes being conscious of your sugar intake much more important, warned Cari Erasmus, a registered dietitian with the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

She explained that excessive sugar consumption is linked to chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension or even insulin resistance.

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“Sugars are very energy dense, and that can result in you taking in too many calories and too few nutrients. It can be bad for digestion and also cause inflammation in the body.” 

Erasmus highlighted the importance of distinguishing between natural sugars and added sugars. 

Natural sugars are found in whole foods like fruit and vegetables and contain beneficial nutrients and fibre, while added sugars, commonly found in processed food and sweetened beverages, harm health. 

Practical tips for managing sugar intake include being mindful of hidden sugars in foods and beverages, especially added sugars. 

“A motivator for people is that you do have an adaptation phase where once your blood sugar levels have started to normalise, your insulin sensitivity improves, your body is better at responding, and your digestive system starts to improve,” she said.

To listen to Erasmus in conversation with 702’s Clement Manyathela, use the audio player below: