How Much Sugar?
Tuesday November 30, -0001
Carbohydrates that contain a fair amount of fiber and nutrients are known as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Carbohydrates with little or no fiber and nutrients are what we call candy, cookies, cakes, muffins, chips, pies, crackers, pastries, pancakes, waffles, donuts, croissants, shakes, sodas, etc. Your body breaks down all carbohydrates into sugars (simple and complex) to be used immediately as energy, if needed, or to be stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles, and as lipids (fat) around your waist.
While a large banana does contain the equivalent of 4½ sugar cubes, it also packs 3½ grams of fiber and a host of vitamins and minerals. During the digestive process sugar is absorbed into the blood stream much slower in the presence of fiber, which moderates insulin release and carbohydrate metabolism. Insulin problems, as you may know, can lead to fat retention and diabetes. So always try to get your sugar from natural food sources that have good fiber and nutrient content as well.
Just how much sugar actually is in your snack or drink? Check it out at http://www.sugarstacks.com. Did you know that a 21oz McDonald’s Chocolate Shake has the equivalent of 28 sugar cubes?!