The Quantity of Sugar We Drink on A Regular Consumption Basis
The drinks you consume contain either natural or added sugar. Too much added sugar might be the reason for your weight gain and vulnerability to various diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart diseases. If you are always taking your favorite drink without a second thought on its ingredients, you should at least read the nutrition labels to confirm the amount of sugar you consume. Always check ingredients such as regular table sugar (sucrose) and high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), fructose, and dextrose. A 250ml glass of your preferred soft drink, fruit juice, sports drinks, and energy drinks can contain at least 5–7 teaspoons of sugar.
The standard quantity of sugar that is safe for your health
The average sugar consumption among people is extremely high. The National Heart Foundation of Australia recommends 150 calories (37.5 grams or an equivalent 9 teaspoons) for men and 100 calories per day (25 grams or 6 teaspoons) for women. Distinguish between natural and added sugars to determine the correct levels of sugar you should drink. Natural sugars from natural foods and vegetables contain additional water, micro-nutrients, and fiber which does not apply to added sugar.
The possible damaging effects of too much sugar on your teeth and general health
Sugary drinks can cause life-threatening lifestyle diseases, including heart diseases. Many people often ignore the cosmetic damages sugar can do to their teeth. If the sugar sits on your teeth, it may cause plaque and bacteria that cause tooth decay. Sugar can also cause gum disease, which can lead to other chronic diseases. Bright Smiles Dentistry encourage people to brush their teeth at least twice a day to stop sugars from fueling plaque and bacteria.
How to Avoid or Minimize Sugars in Your Diet
You should either minimise consuming added sugar or intake other natural substitutes of sugar. Natural sweeteners can be good for your health. You should avoid the following foods to offset your sugar intake:
- Sugar-sweetened beverages.
- Sugary fruit juice. Instead, consume whole fruit.
- Fruit canned in syrup.
- Low-fat and diet foods.
You should alternatively drink water instead of soft drinks such as soda. You can also offset the level of sugar you drink by avoiding sugar in your tea or coffee. Other people also reduce sugar intake by trying cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger recipes. Always avoid packaged drinks that contain sugar as the first ingredient or contain more than one type of sugar.
Book an appointment with Bright Smiles oral health team and learn more about our high-quality dental services.