Sugar is a common part of the American diet, with the average person consuming around 17 teaspoons of sugar per day. However, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend keeping added sugar intake to less than 12 teaspoons per day. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar has been linked to various health issues, including heart disease, certain cancers, and type 2 diabetes. It is important to note, however, that the negative effects of sugar only occur when consumed in excess.
While it may be challenging to completely eliminate all sugar from your diet, as carbohydrates are eventually broken down into sugar by the body for energy, it is wise to focus on reducing added sugars. Added sugars are those that are not naturally present in whole foods like fruits and vegetables. If you currently have a high-sugar diet and want to reduce your sugar intake, it is recommended to do so gradually rather than eliminating it abruptly. Sudden elimination can lead to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, cravings, mood changes, fatigue, dizziness, and poor concentration.
