Sugar seems to be in everything these days, even in products you wouldn't expect. These hidden sugar bombs can have a big impact on your health, so it's nice to know where sugar all hides when you want to avoid it. Because eating less sugar, how exactly do you do that? In this blog, we reveal some surprising products with sugar hidden in them, so you can leave them out especially in the supermarket.
Why is eating less sugar good for you?
In the Netherlands we consume an average of 16 sugar cubes of free (added) sugars per day, according to figures from the Diabetes Fund. And that while sugar has several negative consequences for our health. That sugar gives energy, for example, is a myth. Sugar gives a temporary spike in your blood sugar level, which makes it seem as if you have more energy, but this is followed by a huge dip in your energy. Furthermore, too much sugar can lead to fatty liver, diabetes and intestinal imbalance. Not to mention rapid aging of your brain, dental and skin problems.
So eating less sugar can make for better health, and using sugar responsibly is a must. Products such as cookies, candy, cake and chocolate are often the first things to go when you are conscious about your sugar intake. But what if you are not aware that there is sugar in your favorite green tea?
That's why we share 6 hidden sugar bombs with you below!
1. Flavored yogurt
Your favorite fresh fruit-flavored yogurt may seem healthy, but it often contains a lot of added sugar to enhance the taste. Instead, choose Greek yogurt with no added sugars and add fresh fruit for natural sweetness. Extra tasty and nutritious with some unroasted nuts, flaxseed and raw cacao nibs!
2. Ready-made soups
Soup may seem like a healthy choice, but many ready-made varieties contain sugars to enhance flavor or extend shelf life. Rather choose a homemade soup with fresh ingredients. Sauté some onion and garlic in olive oil, add fresh vegetables and herbs and simmer in sugar-free broth. Mash briefly, garnish with seeds and kernels et voila! A nutritious meal with no added sugars!
3. Granola and granola bars
Granola and granola bars are often promoted as healthy snacks, but many contain added sugars to make them more palatable. Looking for a responsible snack? Then try making these date balls with cocoa. Quickly made and keep well in the freezer. This way you always have a healthy snack on hand! Fancy a healthy granola? This recipe with orange and rosemary is a must!
4. Packaged smoothies
Ready-made smoothies seem convenient, but they can be packed with sugar. Even if they claim to contain "no added sugars. Rather opt for a homemade smoothie with spinach, apples, almond milk and blueberries. Don't have time to make a smoothie, but want to enjoy a healthy, fresh and nutritious drink? Then our superfoods & greens mix is the solution!
5. Green iced tea
When you steep a bag of green tea in hot water, you are heartily healthy. However, a pack of ready-made green iced tea, possibly with an extra flavor such as peach or lemon, is anything but healthy and a real sugar bomb. Leave soda alone and make your own green (iced) tea or choose a nice glass of infused water.
6. Ketchup and barbecue sauce
These sauces often contain more sugar than you think, for example, ketchup sometimes consists of as much as 25% sugar! A sauce made from tomatoes seems healthy, but nothing could be further from the truth. Pay attention to labels and consider homemade alternatives.