How Much Sugar is Actually Healthy for Your Child?

How Much Sugar is Actually Healthy for Your Child?

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With the average child consuming over three times the recommended amount of added sugars, it’s easy to see how much sugar our kids are ingesting on a daily basis. But how much sugar is healthy for them? Suppose you’re looking to create healthier meals and snacks for your children. In that case, this blog can provide invaluable information about what constitutes an appropriate amount of added and natural sugars for them to consume each day. In addition, we’ll discuss why too many sugary foods can be detrimental to their health and explain how to reduce their intake in a way that doesn’t leave them feeling deprived or unsatisfied. 

Healthy Sugar for Children

Difference Between Added Sugars and Naturally Occurring Sugars

Sugars occur naturally in foods such as fruits and dairy products, providing the body with the energy it needs. However, added sugars are not found naturally in foods and are often added to improve the taste or texture of the food. Examples include high fructose corn syrup, brown sugar, cane sugar, and honey. It is important to note that added sugar is found in desserts, sodas, and other seemingly “healthy” foods such as cereals, yogurt, and bread.

Recommendations for Added Sugar Intake in Children

According to the American Heart Association, children aged 2-18 should consume no more than six teaspoons (25 grams) of added sugar per day. However, the average child consumes over three times that amount. As parents, we need to be mindful of the recommended daily intake and make an effort to reduce our child’s overall sugar consumption. We can achieve this by offering more whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, avoiding sugary drinks, and limiting processed foods.

Identifying Foods with Hidden Sugars and How to Reduce Intake

Many processed foods contain hidden sugars in the form of syrups and additives, making it difficult to determine whether a food item is healthy. As parents, it is crucial to read food labels carefully and avoid products with high levels of added sugars. Instead, we can choose low-sugar alternatives, prepare homemade meals and snacks using fresh ingredients, and limit our child’s exposure to sugary treats.

Long-term Impact of Excessive Sugar Consumption on Your child’s Health

Excessive sugar consumption can lead to various health complications such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and dental problems. In addition, the long-term effects of consuming too much sugar can also include behavioral issues, poor academic performance, and hormonal imbalances. Therefore, reducing your child’s sugar intake gives them a better chance of overall health and well-being.

Same Great Taste, Made With A Lotta Good Stuff

Providing our children with a nutritious diet is one of the most significant ways to ensure their long-term health and well-being. As parents, we need to be mindful of the amount of sugar our children consume daily and make an effort to reduce their overall sugar intake. Lotta Products makes it easy to choose better for your family. Our unique house-blended, plant-based sugar replacer delivers a healthier take on the sweets your children will love. All of our Notta Lotta Sugar mixes use simple ingredients, contain added fiber, fewer calories, lower sodium, no artificial flavors, and use the plant-based sugar substitute. Treat your family to low-sugar cakes, cookies, and cornbread with the same great taste.

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