Sugar is the New Fat

Did you know…

• More than 70 percent of all packaged foods contain added sugars.
• The average American consumes more than 60 pounds of added sugars every year.
• A single 12-ounce soft drink contains 11 teaspoons of sugar, nearly double the amount of sugar that most people should really consume per day.

These are a few of many reasons why many people believe sugar is the new fat, the subject of my video conversation with CHEK Faculty Member Jo Rushton.

By itself, sugar isn’t a bad thing, as it’s an essential nutrient and fuel for the body. The real problem with sugar, Jo says, is recognizing where the sugar is coming from and what form it’s going into our bodies.

When we eat sugar as part of a whole food or complete compound, our bodies know how to utilize and metabolize sugar. The problem lies in dealing with the extra sugars added by food manufacturers, or when it’s prepared at home that makes the real difference.

During our conversation, Jo explains the many processes that happen behind the scenes in your body when you eat too many refined sugars in foods. Also, Jo shares some nutritional tips to keep in mind when you want to reduce the amount of sugar you consume.

As you’re watching my conversation with Jo, keep in mind that no two humans are alike, and the same thing applies to our ability to consume sugar too. How much sugar each person can consume and stay healthy varies greatly.